Feeling Friction

Looking Around 2 — About Me / Means of Transport. Feeling grip on feet and wheels introduces friction through daily movement in Looking Around 2.

• Friction is a force that slows or stops motion when surfaces rub.
• Rough surfaces → more friction; smooth → less.
• Why we need friction for walking and braking.

Verbal: Friction is the rubbing force that slows things down — rough surfaces grip more than smooth ones.

Symbolic: Rough surface → high friction (good grip). Smooth/wet → low friction (easy to slip).

Level 1 — Rub your hands

Warmth comes from friction between palms.

Level 1 — Sliding tests

Book on table slides and stops — friction between book and table.

Level 1 — Rough vs smooth

Level 2 — Useful friction

Tyres grip road; shoes grip floor — without it we slip.

Level 2 — India

Wet monsoon floor — less friction, walk carefully!

Why does a cricket ball stop rolling on grass?

Step 1 — Ball rolls on grass.
Step 2 — Ball and grass rub → **friction**.
Step 3 — Friction slows the ball until it stops.
Answer: Friction between ball and grass.

• Why do car tyres have grooves?
• Is it easier to slide on ice or mud?
• What force slows a sliding eraser?

Stretch: Why do cricketers wear spiked shoes on grass but smooth soles are risky on a wet monsoon floor?

Revision tip: Rub your palms fast — warmth proves friction. Then slide a book on rough vs smooth table.

Open the Practice tab for graded questions on Feeling Friction.