Frictional force

6.2  Frictional force

 
The direction of the frictional force is always opposite to the direction of the movement of the object. Frictional force can slow
down or stop a moving object.
 
Definition
     
  Frictional force is the force when two surfaces are in contact  
 
 
Factors That Affect Frictional Force
    
  Types of Surface Mass of the Object  
 Smooth surfaces produce less frictional force  Light objects produce less frictional force
(The smoother the contacted surfaces, the lesser the (The lighter the mass of the object, the lesser the
frictional force produced) frictional force produced)

 Rough surfaces produce great frictional force  Heavy objects produce great frictional force
 (The rougher the contacted surfaces, the greater the (The greater the mass of the object, the greater the
frictional force produced) frictional force produced)

    
 
Frictional Force
    
Increasing the frictional force Decreasing the frictional force
 Using lubricant oil
 Using rubber mat  Using rollers, balls bearings or wheels
 Using rough surface and stripes pattern   Using wax
   
 Using magnesium carbonate lime powder  Using grease
 Using boric acid flour

 
 
Advantages and Disadvantages of Frictional Force
    
Advantages Disadvantages
 Enables an object to be held without slipping  Produces loud sounds
 Enables humans to walk or run without slipping  Generates heat and causes the surface to become hot
   
 Enables an object to remain stationary  Frictional force wears out a scraped surface
 Enables humans to climb a tree  Causes heavy objects to be difficult to pull or push