Friction: Introduction

Frictional force is something that tries to stop the movements of an object already resting in one condition. This is best understood with one example:

Suppose one solid block of mass or ‘m’ is resting on the rough surface, consider this picture:

• The force used to pull that mass is P and in its initial moment that m is unable to move.
• The reason behind this is F which is delivering a counter force to stop m from going into the direction P is pulling.
• The more P tries to pull F increases with each moment.
• You will find this m starts to move or slide on that rough surface only when P pulls with highest force.

Consider this figure:

That block of mass will reach equilibrium in this condition.

Let us find the equations to solve this:

First, ∑F_x= 0

P – F =0

F = p

Then, ∑f_y= 0

N – mg = 0

N = mg

Links of Previous Main Topic:-

• Introduction to statics
• Introduction to vector algebra
• Two dimensional force systems
• Introduction concept of equilibrium of rigid body

Links of Next Mechanical Engineering Topics:-

• Coefficient of friction
• Angle of friction
• Cone of friction
• Static friction and kinetic friction
• Coulomb friction
• Angle of repose
• Wedge friction