Friction for different contacts

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    Friction
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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinction between rolling friction and sliding friction, emphasizing that rolling friction is not true friction but rather a loss of energy due to the deformation of the wheel at the contact point. It is established that the friction at the contact point of a rolling body is static friction, while sliding bodies experience dynamic friction. The conversation also references the concept of rolling resistance, which is a minor force resulting from deformation, typically negligible in exam scenarios.

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  • Understanding of static and dynamic friction
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  • Familiarity with the coefficient of friction
  • Basic principles of mechanics related to force and motion
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  • Research the differences between static and dynamic friction in detail
  • Explore the concept of rolling resistance and its applications
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sriram123
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Hi all,
I know this is a very basic question and has been discussed in various threads.Anyway i would i like to ask this.

If the value of friction only depends on coefficient of friction and normal force, why is rolling friction less than sliding friction? Is it because the value of Rn the reaction force changes?

I know this is very elementary but I thought it would make my understanding better.

Thanks in advance
 
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hi sriram123! :smile:
sriram123 said:
If the value of friction only depends on coefficient of friction and normal force, why is rolling friction less than sliding friction? Is it because the value of Rn the reaction force changes?

"rolling friction" isn't actually friction, it's a loss of energy caused by continual deformation of the wheel where it meets the surface :wink:

from the pf library:
Friction:

Friction at the point of contact of a rolling body is static friction.

There is also a rolling resistance, or "rolling friction": an additional small force, caused by deformation of the body (in exam questions it can usually be ignored).

Friction at the point of contact of a sliding body is of course dynamic friction.​
 

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