Organise a discussion in your class on the topic: Friction—a necessity or a problem? Make a note of the discussion and state where friction is a necessity and when it is a problem.
Friction plays a dual role in our daily lives—sometimes it is essential, while at other times it creates problems.
Friction as a necessity:
Walking is possible only because friction between our feet and the ground provides grip. Vehicles can move and stop safely due to friction between tyres and roads.
Writing with a pen or pencil requires friction between the writing tool and paper. Holding objects like glasses or books is possible due to friction between our hands and the objects.
Matches light due to friction between the matchstick and the striking surface.
Friction as a problem:
Friction causes wear and tear of machine parts, reducing their lifespan. It produces heat, leading to energy loss in engines and machinery.
It makes moving heavy objects difficult, requiring more energy. Vehicles consume more fuel to overcome friction.
Friction causes soles of shoes and tyres to wear out over time.
Explanation
The chapter explains that friction 'acts in a direction opposite to the direction in which the object is moving' and that it 'brings the object to a stop.' While this is useful for stopping, it also opposes motion when we want objects to move freely.
Solution Steps
Friction as a necessity: Walking is possible due to friction providing grip between feet and ground
Vehicles can move and stop safely because of friction between tyres and roads
Writing with pen or pencil requires friction between the writing tool and paper
Holding objects like glasses or books is possible due to friction between hands and objects
Matches light due to friction between matchstick and striking surface
Friction as a problem: Friction causes wear and tear of machine parts, reducing lifespan
Friction produces heat, leading to energy loss in engines and machinery
Friction makes moving heavy objects difficult, requiring more energy
Vehicles consume more fuel to overcome friction
Friction causes soles of shoes and tyres to wear out over time