Friction : Definition, Types, Formula and Examples

Friction

When surfaces move past each other, they offer resistance. The resistance is called friction. Traction is provided by friction which lets us walk without slipping. Friction helps us in our everyday lives. Holding a cup of tea or a chemistry book requires friction. But there are also a few setbacks of friction, such as a lot of engine power in automobiles being wasted due to friction.

Factors that affect friction are – if the surface is rough, the friction increases. On the other hand, if the surface is smooth, the friction decreases.

Friction is caused by irregularities in the structure of the surfaces. When one surface moves over another surface, the irregularities get entangled, giving rise to friction. Higher the irregularities higher the friction.

There is more than one type of friction. There is static friction, rolling friction, fluid friction, and sliding friction. The types of friction mentioned above are different from one another. The friction that acts between surfaces is called static friction. When two objects start sliding against each other, the friction produced is called sliding friction. Fluid friction is found when objects move inside a fluid, such as water or air. Fluid friction is also referred to as viscosity sometimes. When a ball rolls on a floor, the friction produced is called rolling friction.