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Friction

Question
CBSEENSC8005654

Explain why sliding friction is less than static friction.

Solution

Friction is caused by the irregularities on surfaces. There is a relative movement, when two surface comes in contact with each other, and the force resists the motion. This resistance to the motion is friction. 

When the surfaces in contact are at rest, the imperfections interlock and hence more force is requried to overcome the static friction. 

However, when the objects are moving, the interlocking is transient and hence the force required to overcome this sliding friction is lesser. 

Therefore, sliding friction is always less than static friction.