Friction is all around us

Look at the photographs and explain in each case where friction comes into play. Say whether the frictional forces are a nuisance or useful . The first one is done for you as an example. Rock climbing Friction between: a) the hands of the rock climber and the rope: useful b) the shoes of the rock climber and the rock face: useful

Pushing a car

Motorcycle racing

Athletes racing

Pushing a supermarket trolley

Answers to questions: Rock climbing Friction between : a) The hands of the rock climber and the rope useful. b) The shoes of the rock climber and the rock face useful. Pushing a car Friction between a) The feet of the people pushing against the ground useful. b) The car tyres and the surface they are in contact with nuisance. Motorcycle racing Friction between : a) The motorcycle seat and the motorcyclist useful. b) The tyres and the road useful. c) The air and the machine and its rider nuisance. Athletes Friction between : a) The feet and the track surface useful. b) Air and the runners nuisance. Pushing a supermarket trolley Friction between : a) The trolley wheels and the floor nuisance. b) The feet of the person pushing the trolley and the floor useful. c) The hands and the trolley handle - useful.