Friction in Everyday Life: Walking & Knots

Thread starter fog37
Start date May 4, 2018
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Friction

In summary, friction plays a crucial role in many everyday situations, such as walking, sitting in a chair, and driving a vehicle. It is also important in various physical processes, including knotting ropes and creating wheel traction. Friction is necessary for screws to stay in place and for wedges to do their job, as it allows for the transmission of force and the creation of pressure on a smaller surface area. However, there are some cases, such as in extruders, where friction can be controlled and minimized to achieve optimal results.

Jun 23, 2018

A.T.

Science Advisor

fog37 said:

Thanks A.T.

To paraphrase you, the normal (reaction force) force on the sloped surface of the wedge can be decomposed into a vertical upward component and a horizontal component directed towards the door. The vertical force component adds to the normal force that the weight of the wedge stopper produces. This increases the available friction from the floor (since the overall normal force has been increased) allowing the stopper to be more effective at keeping the door from moving.

Yes, just be more clear which "normal force" you mean (stopper top vs stopper base). And don't put too much emphasis on this "action/reaction", "force produces force" stuff. It doesn't mean much and is completely irrelevant for a quantitative analysis of the forces.

Last edited: Jun 24, 2018

<h2> What causes friction when we walk?</h2><p>Friction when we walk is caused by the interaction between the soles of our shoes and the surface we are walking on. The roughness of the surface and the materials of our shoes determine the amount of friction.</p><h2> Why do we need friction when we walk?</h2><p>Friction is necessary when we walk to prevent us from slipping and falling. It also allows us to push off the ground and move forward with each step.</p><h2> How does friction affect the way we tie knots?</h2><p>Friction plays a crucial role in tying knots. The friction between the strands of the rope or string creates tension, which keeps the knot in place. Without friction, the knot would easily come undone.</p><h2> Can friction be both helpful and harmful in everyday life?</h2><p>Yes, friction can be both helpful and harmful in everyday life. It is helpful in activities such as walking and tying knots, but it can also cause wear and tear on objects and machines, leading to their deterioration over time.</p><h2> How can we reduce friction in everyday life?</h2><p>There are a few ways to reduce friction in everyday life. Lubricants, such as oil and grease, can be used to reduce friction between surfaces. Choosing smoother materials and surfaces can also help reduce friction. Additionally, reducing the weight or pressure on an object can also decrease friction.</p>

FAQ: Friction in Everyday Life: Walking & Knots

What causes friction when we walk?

Friction when we walk is caused by the interaction between the soles of our shoes and the surface we are walking on. The roughness of the surface and the materials of our shoes determine the amount of friction.

Why do we need friction when we walk?

Friction is necessary when we walk to prevent us from slipping and falling. It also allows us to push off the ground and move forward with each step.

How does friction affect the way we tie knots?

Friction plays a crucial role in tying knots. The friction between the strands of the rope or string creates tension, which keeps the knot in place. Without friction, the knot would easily come undone.

Can friction be both helpful and harmful in everyday life?

Yes, friction can be both helpful and harmful in everyday life. It is helpful in activities such as walking and tying knots, but it can also cause wear and tear on objects and machines, leading to their deterioration over time.

How can we reduce friction in everyday life?

There are a few ways to reduce friction in everyday life. Lubricants, such as oil and grease, can be used to reduce friction between surfaces. Choosing smoother materials and surfaces can also help reduce friction. Additionally, reducing the weight or pressure on an object can also decrease friction.