Origin of Friction: Atomic/Sub-Atomic Scale

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Chemist@
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What is the origin of friction on the atomic (sub-atomic) scale?
 
Chemist@ said:
What is the origin of friction on the atomic (sub-atomic) scale?
Do you mean:

"Why is the frictional force opposite in direction to the direction of travel?"
 
Here's the Tomlinson's model on the orgin of friction:

http://www.reibungsphysik.tu-berlin.de/fileadmin/fg204/Publikationen/Tomlinson.pdf

Please note that this is a very specific example. Your question is actually rather vague, because not only are there different proposed mechanisms for static and kinetic friction, but there are also different models for solid-liquid friction, liquid-liquid friction, etc. It is why Nugatory suggested that you do a bit of homework on your own first and figure out exactly how to ask your question in a more informed manner.

Zz.