How does the reaction force of friction affect the ground?

In summary, when trying to push a heavy block on the ground without applying a force stronger than the maximum static friction, there are no accelerations as all forces are static. However, if using a jetpack to generate the pushing force, the force is on the entire air/Earth system.
  • #1
Harsh Bhardwaj
17
3
Suppose I am trying to push a heavy block on ground and I haven't applied a force stronger than the maximum static friction. The force of friction acts on the block and its equal and opposite force acts on the ground. Does the reaction force of friction(acting horizontally on the ground) actually give a horizontal acceleration to the ground?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Harsh Bhardwaj said:
Suppose I am trying to push a heavy block on ground and I haven't applied a force stronger than the maximum static friction. The force of friction acts on the block and its equal and opposite force acts on the ground. Does the reaction force of friction(acting horizontally on the ground) actually give a horizontal acceleration to the ground?
If the block doesn't move with respect to the Earth, there are no accelerations anywhere. It's all static forces.
 
  • #3
Harsh Bhardwaj said:
Does the reaction force of friction(acting horizontally on the ground) actually give a horizontal acceleration to the ground?
If your feet are providing the force the other way to help you generate the pushing force with your hands, then there are equal and opposite forces on the surface of the Earth, no?

But if you are using your jetpack to generate the force that you are using to push with your hands, then the force is on the whole air/Earth system...

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/772658/Yves_Rossy_1020.jpeg
Yves_Rossy_1020.jpg
 

1. What is the reaction force of friction?

The reaction force of friction is the force that is exerted by a surface on an object in contact with it, in the opposite direction of the object's motion. It is a result of the interaction between the molecules of the two surfaces in contact.

2. How does the reaction force of friction affect the ground?

The reaction force of friction can have both positive and negative effects on the ground. On one hand, it allows us to walk and move objects on the ground without slipping. On the other hand, it can cause wear and tear on the ground's surface, leading to erosion and damage over time.

3. What factors affect the reaction force of friction on the ground?

The reaction force of friction on the ground is affected by several factors, including the type of surface material, the weight and surface area of the object in contact, and the angle and speed of the object's motion.

4. How can the reaction force of friction be reduced on the ground?

The reaction force of friction on the ground can be reduced by using lubricants such as oil or grease, which form a layer between the two surfaces and reduce the friction. Additionally, using materials with lower coefficients of friction, such as rubber or plastic, can also help to reduce the force.

5. Can the reaction force of friction be increased on the ground?

Yes, the reaction force of friction on the ground can be increased by increasing the weight and surface area of the object in contact, as well as by increasing the roughness of the surface. This is why it is important to wear appropriate footwear for different types of terrain to increase the friction and prevent slipping.

Similar threads

Replies
7
Views
855
  • Mechanics
Replies
23
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
342
Replies
11
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
874
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
52
Views
2K
Replies
15
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
934
Back
Top