Question

List some ways in which friction between two surfaces can be reduced.

Answer 1

Hint: Friction is the force that helps us in walking, holding objects, and performing our daily activities. But in some cases, we need to reduce the friction for various reasons like decreasing the wear and tear. We can decrease the friction by lubrication, polishing, and many others. Let’s see in great detail about these methods.

Complete step-by-step answer:
We are going to discuss how to decrease friction by lubrication, ball bearing, and polishing.

1.) Lubrication: We can use lubricants such as oil, water, grease to reduce friction between surfaces. To understand this let’s imagine a situation. You went to industry and observed several gears which are in contact with each other and constantly rotating. Have you ever thought of what is responsible for the smooth rotation of the gears? Yes, the answer is lubrication. We lubricate to reduce friction and ensure the proper functioning of the machines.

2.) Ball Bearing: We use ball bearings to reduce the friction between objects while rolling. Have you ever noticed ball bearings in a skateboard or a car? These ball bearings ensure that the friction is reduced to a great extent and the functioning is smooth.

3.) Polishing: Polishing the surface makes the surface smoother as a result reduces the friction. Every surface is made of many irregularities which increases friction. By polishing the surface we remove the irregularities and smoothen the surface. Thereby friction is reduced.

Note: There are other methods like streamline shaping which is used especially when the object is moving in fluids. Streamline shaping reduces friction and ensures quick and smooth movement of the objects in the fluid