Speed vs Friction: The Mystery Explained

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between speed and friction in pulling an object, specifically a mat between a table and a dining set. It is noted that a quick pull can reduce the amount of time for frictional forces to act on the objects, leading to a smaller displacement. However, the frictional force itself remains the same. It is also mentioned that static friction is greater than kinetic friction, resulting in a more significant movement at the start of the pull.
  • #1
wavingerwin
98
0
I am just wondering

In a case, a person can completely pull a mat between a table with and a dining set on top, with the dining set only moving a negligible distance (hence not falling off)

This can also happen in everyday life, e.g. pulling a paper or any thin sheet between two non-fixed objects.

The significant technique of the pull involve great speeds.
Lower speed will move the two or one of the objects significantly.

On a free fall, an object will reach terminal velocity as it moves at a great speed.
(greater speed results greater friction.)

However with the case of the table, mat, and dining set, it appears that greater speed reduces friction.

Can somebody please explain if there's any link between speed and friction?
Thank you
 
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  • #2
I don't think it reduces the coefficients of friction involved. The quick pull just reduces the amount of time that the forces of friction interact with the objects sitting on the tablecloth. Shorter time and same force produces less displacement.
 
  • #3
v_bachtiar said:
I am just wondering

In a case, a person can completely pull a mat between a table with and a dining set on top, with the dining set only moving a negligible distance (hence not falling off)

This can also happen in everyday life, e.g. pulling a paper or any thin sheet between two non-fixed objects.

The significant technique of the pull involve great speeds.
Lower speed will move the two or one of the objects significantly.

On a free fall, an object will reach terminal velocity as it moves at a great speed.
(greater speed results greater friction.)

However with the case of the table, mat, and dining set, it appears that greater speed reduces friction.

Can somebody please explain if there's any link between speed and friction?
Thank you
The frictional force is the coefficient of friction(static or kinetic) multiplied by its weight, so it does not change.
When the pulling involves great speeds, it is just too much for the frictional forces to affect.
Static friction is more than kinetic friction, so you may see the dining set to move more significantly on the initiation of the pull than later.
 

FAQ: Speed vs Friction: The Mystery Explained

What is speed?

Speed is the rate at which an object moves. It is typically measured in units of distance per time, such as miles per hour or meters per second.

What is friction?

Friction is the force that resists the motion of an object when it is in contact with another surface. It is caused by the microscopic roughness of surfaces and can vary depending on the materials and conditions involved.

How does speed affect friction?

The higher the speed of an object, the greater the friction will be. This is because the faster an object moves, the more it comes into contact with other surfaces, which increases the amount of friction it experiences.

Why is friction important?

Friction is important because it allows us to control and manipulate the motion of objects. Without friction, objects would not be able to stay in place or move in a controlled manner. Friction also plays a crucial role in many everyday activities, such as walking, driving, and writing.

How can we reduce friction?

There are several ways to reduce friction, such as using lubricants, making surfaces smoother, or using materials with lower coefficients of friction. Additionally, reducing the weight or speed of an object can also help to decrease friction.

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