Atoms and electrons when one object is rubbed on another

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When one object is rubbed against another, weak chemical bonds form and break between the atoms at their surfaces. This process can lead to a transfer of a few electrons from one object to another, resulting in electrostatic charges. While only a small number of atoms may gain or lose electrons, the overall atomic structure remains largely unchanged. Discussions also touch on the significance of atom removal in contexts like tire wear, where high static friction can lead to some atom loss as a byproduct. The conversation further explores the relationship between friction, heat production, and electromagnetic waves.
benzun_1999
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dear reader,
what is happening to the atoms and electrons when one object is rubbed on another?

-benzun
 
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Weak chemical bonds are forming and being broken repeatedly between atoms near or on the surfaces of the materials.

- Warren
 
and

in some cases a few electrons are dragged off of one object by the other object causing the two objects to be electrostatically charged.

Only a few of the atoms in the entire material will gain or lose an electron (if any at all). None of the atoms are moved (not significantly at least).
 
Originally posted by Chi Meson
and


Only a few of the atoms in the entire material will gain or lose an electron (if any at all). None of the atoms are moved (not significantly at least).

Have you seen tyre wear on a racing motorcycle? Surely this is 'significant' removal of atoms? (Or am I being pedantic?)
 
Originally posted by Adrian Baker
Have you seen tyre wear on a racing motorcycle? Surely this is 'significant' removal of atoms? (Or am I being pedantic?)
Atoms can be removed BECAUSE OF high static friction, but the removal isn't part of the friction itself, its a biproduct. The static friction force would be higher in that case than the force holding the tire together. Kinda nitpicky, but there is a difference.
 
Yeah, what he said!
 
Actually, I thought it was a good and valid comment, and it was taking me a while to come back with an answer, but Russ's answer was better than mine!
 
Not sure about the validity, but with the amount I spend on tyres I kinda feel it is significant!
 
according to your answer...the electrons are dragged the item and are possitely or negatively charged, but also many items act differently due to polar covalent bonding, where a compound electronegativety acts as a charge where as the substance is slightly positive as well as slightly negative...they product of reaction occurs for whatever part has the greater negativity...I think...lol
 
  • #10
hey...

How is heat produced due to friction? what has electromagnetic wave got to do with it?
 

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