Question

To move a heavy object, like a refrigerator what could be used to help decrease the frictional force?

Pick all that apply.

A. Remove everything in the refrigerator to lighten the load.
B. Put a lubricant between the surface of the object and the floor
C. Use round objects, like pencils , to decrease the friction and push the refrigerator over the pencils more easily

D. Use more force to push the refrigerator, with the help of a friend

(APEX)

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Remove everything in the refrigerator to lighten the load.

B. Put a lubricant between the surface of the object and the floor

C. Use round objects, like pencils , to decrease the friction and push the refrigerator over the pencils more easily

Explanation:

Force of friction is a resistance force which acts between two surfaces which are in relative motion. Friction is both boon and bane. Due to friction, we are able to sit, walk etc but also, due to friction there is dissipation of energy. Friction can be reduced by applying lubricants, reducing contact area, reducing the load.

F = μN where N is the normal force which depends on the mass.

Thus, by reducing the load, force of friction can be reduced. Round objects like wheels can also be used. By this the contact area reduces.