Understanding Friction: The Impact of Inter-Molecular Bonding on Movement

In summary, a solid body has friction with the surface when trying to move due to the bonding of molecules and increased contact area. This bonding creates resistance to applied force on the body. As the body starts melting, the pressure of the molecules on the lower part decreases and reduces the intermolecular bonding, making it easier for the upper part to move with the surface. However, this does not align with the premise of the conversation and the thread has been closed.
  • #1
rudransh verma
Gold Member
1,067
96
Imagine a solid body big and heavy. It will have friction between it and the surface when tried to move. Somehow the cluster of molecules opposes the push.

When free these molecules stick on surface and can be moved by a mere blow of wind but when bonded into a solid body the structure of large collection of molecules put pressure on the molecules below and the actual contact area increases as we increase weight. Now the molecules come very close to the surface and this creates inter molecular bonding which opposes any applied force on the body. When we apply force on above part of the body it opposes our push because it’s bonded to the molecules that are in turn weakly bonded to the surface.

In starting the body is heavy. More actual contact area. More bonding and so more opposing of movement of above part of body experiencing more friction. As the body starts melting(and let’s just wipe out the melted part) the pressure of above molecules on the very lower part decrease and so does the inter molecular bonding. This means lesser force on the upper part and the body will move more easily with the lowest layer of molecules in touch with surface.
Am I thinking it right?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
rudransh verma said:
Imagine a solid body big and heavy. It will have friction between it and the surface when tried to move. Somehow the cluster of molecules opposes the push.

When free these molecules stick on surface and can be moved by a mere blow of wind but when bonded into a solid body the structure of large collection of molecules put pressure on the molecules below and the actual contact area increases as we increase weight. Now the molecules come very close to the surface and this creates inter molecular bonding which opposes any applied force on the body. When we apply force on above part of the body it opposes our push because it’s bonded to the molecules that are in turn weakly bonded to the surface.

In starting the body is heavy. More actual contact area. More bonding and so more opposing of movement of above part of body experiencing more friction. As the body starts melting(and let’s just wipe out the melted part) the pressure of above molecules on the very lower part decrease and so does the inter molecular bonding. This means lesser force on the upper part and the body will move more easily with the lowest layer of molecules in touch with surface.
Am I thinking it right?
To answer your final question first. Answer: No.

Why mention melting if you are then saying to just wipe it out?
 
  • Like
Likes russ_watters
  • #3
rudransh verma said:
When free...
As the body starts melting(and let’s just wipe out the melted part)
You haven't substantively changed your post. If anything, you've added contradictions (talk about water without talking about water?) that make it worse. Thread closed. Please don't re-start the thread unless you are actually making the change to the premise you say you want to make.
 
  • Like
Likes SammyS

FAQ: Understanding Friction: The Impact of Inter-Molecular Bonding on Movement

What is friction?

Friction is a force that resists the relative motion between two surfaces that are in contact with each other. It is caused by the interactions between the molecules of the two surfaces.

How does inter-molecular bonding impact friction?

The strength of inter-molecular bonds between the molecules of two surfaces determines the amount of force required to overcome the resistance of friction. Stronger bonds result in higher friction, while weaker bonds result in lower friction.

What factors influence friction?

The amount of friction between two surfaces is influenced by several factors, including the type of materials, the roughness of the surfaces, the amount of force applied, and the presence of any lubricants.

Why is understanding friction important?

Friction plays a crucial role in many everyday activities, such as walking, driving, and using tools. Understanding friction allows us to design better products, improve efficiency, and reduce wear and tear on surfaces.

How can friction be reduced?

Friction can be reduced by using lubricants, such as oil or grease, to create a barrier between two surfaces. Additionally, using smoother materials and reducing the force applied can also help reduce friction.

Back
Top