Why is kinetic friction always lower than maximum static friction?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the concepts of static and kinetic friction, particularly in the context of a block resting on a ramp and the forces acting upon it.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the nature of friction when an object is at rest and question how static friction operates in the presence of applied forces.

Discussion Status

The conversation includes attempts to clarify the role of static friction in preventing movement and the transition to kinetic friction. Some participants have provided references for further reading, while others express curiosity about the relationship between static and kinetic friction.

Contextual Notes

There is an implicit assumption regarding the definitions and behaviors of static and kinetic friction that participants are examining, particularly in relation to forces acting on the block.

Peter G.
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I was reading about those in my textbook and they drew an example of a block resting on a ramp. The diagram showed the force of friction.

How is there friction if the block is not moving?

Thanks,
Peter G.
 
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Ok, thanks!
 
Well, if any force is applied on the object (even if it's gravity pulling it down a slope) then there's static friction to prevent movement, or attempt to prevent it anyway (so it'll be opposite to where the force wants to cause movement). Once the force is strong enough to achieve movement on the object, static friction becomes kinetic friction, which-- curiously and interestingly enough, is always lower than the max static friction.
 

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