Question

Answer the following in detail.

How is friction harmful to us? Write some ways by which one can reduce friction.

Answer 1

• Disadvantages of friction:

1. Friction produces heat which damages the moving parts of a machine.
2. Friction produces wear and tear on the contacting surfaces. This reduces the life of machine parts, tyres and shoe soles.
3. A lot of energy is wasted due to friction to overcome it before moving.,

• Ways to reduce friction :

1. Providing ball bearings or wheels between the moving parts of machine or vehicles reduce friction and allow smooth movement as rolling friction is less than sliding friction.
2. Oiling or lubricating (with graphite or grease) the moving parts of a machine reduces friction. Fine powder like talcum powder also works as a lubricant to reduce friction.
3. Polishing the rough surface reduces friction offered by it.
4. Streamlining (giving special shape to experience minimum drag) the bodies of aeroplanes, cars, boats and ships help reduce drag (fluid friction) while travelling through air or water.