Why sliding friction is less than static friction?
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The sliding friction is less than static friction because of the interlocking of irregularities in the two surfaces. When the object starts sliding the contact points on its surface, do not get enough time to lock into the contact points on the floor.
So the sliding friction is slightly less than the static friction.
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Why sliding friction is less than static friction?
**Sliding Friction:**
Sliding friction, also known as kinetic friction, occurs when two surfaces slide or move against each other. It is the resistance force that opposes the relative motion of the surfaces in contact. Sliding friction is generally lower than static friction, and there are several reasons for this phenomenon.
**Introduction:**
Friction is a force that arises when two surfaces come into contact and move against each other. It is caused by the irregularities and interlocking of microscopic bumps and ridges on the surfaces. Friction can be either static or kinetic, depending on whether the surfaces are at rest or in motion, respectively.
**Static Friction:**
Static friction is the force that prevents an object from moving when a force is applied to it. It is higher than sliding friction and can be thought of as the "initial resistance" that needs to be overcome before an object starts moving. Static friction adjusts itself according to the applied force until a maximum threshold is reached, known as the maximum static friction force.
**Sliding Friction:**
Once an object overcomes the static friction and starts moving, it experiences sliding friction. Sliding friction is generally lower than static friction and remains relatively constant as long as the object's speed remains constant. The reasons for sliding friction being less than static friction are as follows:
1. **Interlocking of Surface Irregularities:** When two surfaces are at rest, their microscopic bumps and ridges interlock, creating a higher resistance to motion. However, when the surfaces slide against each other, these interlocking points break and reform continuously, resulting in a reduced overall resistance.
2. **Surface Area in Contact:** Sliding friction occurs over a smaller area of contact compared to static friction. When an object is at rest, the entire surface area of contact is engaged, resulting in a greater overall resistance. However, when the object starts sliding, the area of contact decreases, leading to a lower frictional force.
3. **Lubrication:** Sliding friction can be reduced by introducing a lubricant between the surfaces. Lubricants, such as oil or grease, create a thin layer that separates the surfaces, reducing the direct contact and friction between them.
4. **Velocity-Dependent Effects:** Sliding friction is influenced by velocity-dependent effects, such as the formation of a lubricating film due to the heat generated during sliding. This film further reduces the frictional force between the surfaces.
In conclusion, sliding friction is generally less than static friction due to the interlocking of surface irregularities, reduced surface area in contact, the presence of lubrication, and velocity-dependent effects. These factors collectively contribute to a lower resistance force when two surfaces are in relative motion.
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