Difference between Static Friction and Sliding Friction
Friction is the force that stops things from sliding or rolling.
The main difference is static friction is the force that keeps an object from moving when it is still while sliding friction is the force that slows down an object that is already moving.
Before we move to the differences, let’s understand what are Static Friction and Sliding Friction:
- Static Friction: Static friction is the force that resists the motion of an object when it is not moving. It acts between two surfaces in contact and is proportional to the normal force between them.
- Sliding Friction: Sliding friction is the force that opposes the motion of an object that is already in motion. It is a force that acts between two surfaces in contact and is proportional to the normal force between them.
Now, let’s move to Static Friction vs Sliding Friction:
Major differences between Static Friction and Sliding Friction
| Static Friction | Sliding Friction |
|---|---|
| Static friction acts before motion begins. | Sliding friction acts during motion. |
| Static friction is usually greater than sliding friction. | Sliding friction is usually less than static friction. |
| Static friction can be overcome with enough force. | Sliding friction will always be present as long as the object is in motion. |
| Static friction can keep an object in place. | Sliding friction causes an object to slow down. |
| Static friction can change direction. | Sliding friction always acts in the opposite direction of motion. |
That’s it.
Note that sometimes, the question might also be asked as “distinguish between Static Friction and Sliding Friction”.
Also see:
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- Difference between Audit Report and Audit Certificate
- Difference between Core Type Transformer and Shell Type Transformer
Final words
Friction is important because it helps us stop and control movement. Static friction and sliding friction are two types of friction, and they work differently. Static friction helps keep things still, while sliding friction helps slow things down.
It is good to understand the different types of friction, so we can make the best use of them in our everyday life.
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