Friction: Force & Electromagnetic Nature

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SUMMARY

Friction is fundamentally an electromagnetic force arising from interactions between atoms at the surfaces of two objects. At the macro level, it involves small surface projections colliding, while at the micro level, it is driven by electric fields between protons and neutrons. Notably, friction can occur even with zero or negative normal force, as illustrated by the example of adhesive tape. Additionally, the presence of water can paradoxically increase friction in certain scenarios, such as when individuals lick their fingers to turn pages.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic interactions
  • Familiarity with atomic structure and forces
  • Knowledge of macro vs. micro-level physics
  • Basic concepts of friction in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the role of electromagnetic forces in material science
  • Explore the effects of surface texture on friction
  • Study the phenomenon of friction under varying normal forces
  • Investigate the impact of lubricants on frictional forces
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Physics students, material scientists, and engineers interested in the fundamental principles of friction and its applications in real-world scenarios.

manimaran1605
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What kind of force is Friction, force applied on a particle? Are these are Electromagnetic in nature?
 
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manimaran1605 said:
What kind of force is Friction, force applied on a particle? Are these are Electromagnetic in nature?

Friction doesn't apply to a particle.
But in general, yes, frictional forces ariss from electromagnetic interactions between the atoms at the surface of the two objects.
 
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It really depends upon which "level" you are looking at. From the "macro" level, friction is small projections in the surface hitting and perhaps breaking off against small projections in the object. From the "micro" level, it is the electric fields of the protons and neutrons pressing against one another.
 
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Friction can be quite interesting. The Wikipedia article mentions situations when you can have friction even with zero or negative normal force. It gives adhesive tape as an example. Sometimes adding water (normally considered a lubricant) can also increase friction. For example many people lick their fingers when trying to turn the pages of a newspaper.
 

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