Direction of Friction in Rolling Objects

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the direction of friction acting on a rolling wheel on a horizontal surface when a forward force is applied to the axle. Participants are examining the implications of different forces and torques on the wheel's motion and the resulting frictional forces.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between applied forces, angular acceleration, and the direction of friction. There are conflicting interpretations of textbook diagrams and the problem statement, leading to questions about the nature of the forces involved.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with various interpretations being explored. Some participants are questioning the assumptions made about the forces and torques, while others are attempting to reconcile the problem statement with the diagrams presented in textbooks.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the original problem statement and the relevance of the diagrams being referenced. Participants are also considering the implications of different scenarios, such as the effects of torque versus linear force on the wheel's motion.

  • #31
I have a question that seems to best fit into this thread.

I'm only concerned with the direction of friction. I believe that as you accelerate down the road the fs is forward for the wheels subjected to torque and backwards for the wheels being 'pushed'. If i have that right then my question is when the brakes are applied and assuming there is not any slipping (the car gradually slows down) are the forces of friction switched? Meaning, do the tires under torsion have a frictional force opposing the velocity of the vehicle?
 
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  • #32
The directions of the forces associated with friction between a pair of surfaces always acts to reduce the relative motion between the two surfaces. To apply this to a situation where there is no slip imagine the motion that would take place if friction between the two surfaces was zero.
 
  • #33
Nyhm said:
I have a question that seems to best fit into this thread.

I'm only concerned with the direction of friction. I believe that as you accelerate down the road the fs is forward for the wheels subjected to torque and backwards for the wheels being 'pushed'. If i have that right then my question is when the brakes are applied and assuming there is not any slipping (the car gradually slows down) are the forces of friction switched? Meaning, do the tires under torsion have a frictional force opposing the velocity of the vehicle?
Yes, you are correct.
 

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