5.2.1

Friction

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Friction

Friction is a contact force where two or more objects move or slide over each other.

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Surfaces

  • Rough surfaces cause more friction.
  • Smooth surfaces cause less friction.
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Heat

  • Friction between objects as they rub against each other creates heat.
    • Example: You create heat when you rub your hands together because of the friction between them.
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Breaking a bike

  • When you squeeze the brakes, they cause more friction on the wheel.
  • The extra friction slows down the bike.
  • When you release the brakes whilst pedalling, the friction is reduced and the bike speeds up again.

Jump to other topics

1Year 5: Living Things & Their Habitats

2Year 5: Animals (Including Humans)

3Year 5: Properties & Changes of Materials

4Year 5: Earth & Space

5Year 5: Forces

6Year 6: Living Things & Their Habitats

7Year 6: Animals (Including Humans)

8Year 6: Evolution & Inheritance

9Year 6: Light

10Year 6: Electricity

11Year 5 & 6: Working Scientifically

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