Friction | Physics for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11 PDF Download

Friction in Solids

• Friction acts in the opposite direction to the object's motion, leading to a decrease in its speed.
  • This deceleration effect is a consequence of friction.
• The presence of friction results in the transfer of energy, predominantly in the form of heat.
  • This elevation in temperature affects both the object and its surrounding environment.
  • The exertion against frictional forces is responsible for this temperature elevation.
• Friction occurring in solids arises from surface imperfections as objects move across each other.
  • This not only impedes the object's motion but also contributes to an increase in thermal energy.

Friction in Fluids

• Gases and liquids are categorized as fluids, distinct from solids because their particles possess the ability to move freely.
  • Fluids stand apart from solids because of the mobility of their constituent particles.
• When objects navigate through gases and liquids, friction comes into play as particles within the fluid collide with the object.
  • This particular form of friction is termed drag.
• Air resistance serves as a specific instance of friction that hampers the movement of an object.
• As the object traverses through the air, particles collide with it, leading to the generation of heat due to the exertion against frictional forces.
  • Consequently, the object experiences a rise in temperature as it contends with these frictional effects.