Rolling Friction

Rolling friction is the force that resists the motion of a rolling object, such as a ball or a wheel, as it moves along a surface. It is caused by the deformation of the object and the surface it is rolling on.

Factors Affecting Rolling Friction

Several factors can affect the amount of rolling friction experienced by an object:

• Surface roughness: Rough surfaces create more rolling friction than smooth surfaces.
• Weight of the object: Heavier objects experience more rolling friction than lighter objects.
• Shape of the object: The shape of the rolling object can also affect the amount of rolling friction it experiences.
• Quality and type of the surface: Softer surfaces create more rolling friction than harder surfaces.

Examples of Rolling Friction

Some common examples of rolling friction include:

• A ball rolling on the ground
• A car's tires rolling on the road
• A wheelbarrow being pushed across the ground
• A skateboard rolling on a sidewalk

How to Reduce Rolling Friction

There are several ways to reduce rolling friction:

• Using smooth, hard surfaces
• Applying lubricants, such as oil or grease, to reduce friction
• Ensuring proper inflation and tread on tires
• Using ball bearings or other rolling mechanisms to reduce friction

Study Questions

1. What is rolling friction?
2. List three factors that can affect the amount of rolling friction experienced by an object.
3. Provide examples of rolling friction in everyday life.
4. How can rolling friction be reduced?

[Rolling Friction] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Force and motionScience • First Grade