How Does Time Influence Friction Between Surfaces?

In summary, the effects of time spent stationary on an object's static friction max or kinetic friction are dependent on the surface it is on. Some surfaces, like super glue on a plastic table, will have an increase in static co-efficient over time. Other surfaces may involve a form of bonding over time, which can increase static friction. However, it is not accurate to classify these surfaces as glue.
  • #1
colt1022
1
0
I was just wondering what effects would time (time spent stationary) have on an objects static friction max, or its kinetic friction (constant). Like would an object that was on a surface for 5 seconds be harder to move than if it were on the surface for 1 hour? Why Why not?
Thank You:smile:

P.S. Not glue!
 
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  • #2
Depends on the surface. A surface of super glue set onto a plastic table would have an increase of the static co-efficient over time.
 
  • #3
Some combinations of surfaces involve a form of bonding (not glue), which will increase static friction.
 
  • #4
colt1022 said:
P.S. Not glue!

Ha ha. I gave an extreme example, but yes other surfaces can bond over time though I am not sure you can't classify those surfaces as very inefficient glue.
 
  • #5


I can tell you that time does not directly affect the amount of friction between two surfaces. Friction is primarily determined by the nature of the surfaces in contact and the force pressing them together. However, there are certain factors related to time that can indirectly affect friction.

For example, if an object is left stationary on a surface for a longer period of time, it may accumulate dust or debris on its surface, which can increase the friction when it is eventually moved. Additionally, if an object is constantly in motion on a surface, the friction may decrease over time due to wear and tear on the surfaces.

In terms of the difference between static and kinetic friction, the time spent stationary or in motion may not have a significant impact on the maximum static friction or constant kinetic friction. These values are primarily determined by the nature of the surfaces and the force pressing them together.

In conclusion, while time may indirectly affect friction, it is not a direct factor in determining the amount of friction between two surfaces. Other factors such as surface properties, force, and wear and tear are more influential in determining the level of friction.
 

FAQ: How Does Time Influence Friction Between Surfaces?

How does time affect friction?

Time can affect friction in several ways. One common way is through wear and tear on surfaces. Over time, surfaces can become rougher and more irregular, increasing the friction between them. Additionally, as materials age, they may lose lubrication or become less flexible, which can also affect friction.

Does friction increase or decrease over time?

This depends on the specific circumstances. In some cases, friction may increase over time due to the factors mentioned above. However, in other cases, friction may decrease as surfaces become smoother or more lubricated with use.

Is there a limit to how much time can affect friction?

Yes, there is a limit to how much time can affect friction. Eventually, surfaces may reach a state of equilibrium where they are as smooth as they can be, or all lubrication has been depleted. At this point, friction will remain relatively constant and may even decrease slightly due to the polishing effect of continued use.

Can time affect the type of friction experienced?

Yes, time can affect the type of friction experienced. For example, initially, a surface may experience kinetic friction, which is the resistance to motion between two surfaces in contact. However, over time, the surface may become smoother, and the friction may transition to static friction, which is the force that keeps stationary objects from moving when a force is applied.

How can we minimize the effects of time on friction?

To minimize the effects of time on friction, regular maintenance and care of surfaces are essential. This can include cleaning and lubricating surfaces, using protective coatings, and regularly replacing worn or damaged materials. Additionally, using materials that are naturally resistant to wear and tear, such as certain types of plastics, can also help reduce the effects of time on friction.

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