Friction Flashcards
What is friction?
A force that resists the movement of objects when they slide or try to slide over a surface.
What causes friction between surfaces?
Surfaces are covered in tiny bumps and irregularities that catch on each other.
How do rough surfaces affect friction?
Rough surfaces create more friction, making it harder for objects to slide.
How do smooth surfaces affect friction?
Smooth surfaces create less friction, allowing objects to move more easily.
What is a lubricant?
A substance used to reduce friction between two surfaces, often in a liquid state.
Give an example of a lubricant.
WD-40
What hypothesis might a scientist make about friction?
A rougher surface will create more friction and slow an object down more than a smoother surface.
What equipment might be used to investigate friction?
A wooden block, different materials to test (e.g., carpet, glass, sandpaper), and a force meter.
What are some useful examples of friction in everyday life?
- Friction between shoes and the ground stops slipping
- Car tires grip the road
What are some not useful examples of friction?
- Friction in machine parts causes wear over time
- Friction can waste energy by creating heat
How can friction be reduced?
Use lubricants like oil or grease, or switch to smoother surfaces.
How can friction be increased?
Use rougher surfaces or add more weight to an object.
What role does friction play in motion?
Friction plays a key role in how objects move and is important to understand for both science and everyday life.
Define irregularities in the context of surfaces.
Things that are not smooth, even, or consistent; uneven or rough parts on a surface.
Fill in the blank: Friction can be both _______ and _______ in everyday life.
[helpful], [unhelpful]
