Friction on a spinning wheel when it is dropped onto the ground

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    Friction Wheel
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The discussion centers on the behavior of a spinning wheel when it contacts the ground, specifically regarding friction and motion. Participants debate whether friction acts in the direction of the wheel's movement or opposes it, clarifying that static friction acts to prevent slipping during the transition from spinning to rolling. The conversation highlights that while the wheel initially skids, it eventually reaches a state of rolling without slipping, where the point of contact is momentarily at rest. The role of friction in this process is crucial, as it influences both the linear and angular velocities of the wheel. Overall, understanding the dynamics of friction is essential for comprehending the wheel's motion.
  • #31
kuruman said:
This is problematic because it seems to imply that there is no energy loss to friction
Umm, how?
Instead of glue, consider dropping a gear wheel onto a toothed rack. Big sudden impulse, lots of opportunity to lose energy.
 

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