force of friction

American  

[fawrs uhv frik-shuhn] / ˈfɔrs əv ˈfrɪk ʃən /

noun

Physics.

1. the force that works in the direction opposite to that of an object’s motion when the surface of the object comes into contact with the surface of another object.

   You can more easily slide across a polished floor than across a carpet because the force of friction working against you is much greater on the carpet.

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Etymology

Origin of force of friction

First recorded in 1665–75

Example Sentences

The force of friction on the toboggan is 31.0 N. Which statement describes an accurate free-body diagram to represent the situation?

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

If the force of friction including air resistance is 250 N and the acceleration of the car is 1.80 m/s2 , what is the mass of the car plus its occupants?

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

The sled’s initial acceleration is 49 m/s2, the mass of the system is 2100 kg, and the force of friction opposing the motion is known to be 650 N.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

What is the maximum force of friction under such conditions?

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

Our machinery does not work in vacuo, and the force of friction and atmosphere opposes it and brings it to a standstill.

From Expositions of Holy Scripture Ezekiel, Daniel, and the Minor Prophets. St Matthew Chapters I to VIII by Maclaren, Alexander