Direction of the frictional force

In summary, the conversation discusses the direction of frictional forces acting on a wheel and a ball rolling up an inclined plane. It is confirmed that the direction of friction is towards the direction of movement of the object, and in the case of the ball, it is to prevent slippage.
  • #1
rootX
479
4

Homework Statement



http://docs.google.com/TeamPresent?docid=dm9wjvk_10fk863j&skipauth=true

In the above file, a force at the top of the wheel is acting towards, right, and the friction at the bottom towards left.

But shouldn't the frictional force at the bottom point towards right?

Homework Equations



NA

The Attempt at a Solution



Second question: if a ball is rolling up an inclined plane, does the friction points upwards?
as it is slowing down the angular velocity so that the ang. velocity could be equal to the linear velocity that is being
slowed down by the gravity.

NA
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
The dirn of the frictional force will always be as to prevent slippage between the surfaces of the ball and the surface it's rolling on.

1. You're right.
2. Again, toward the dirn of the movement of the ball. Gravity is slowing down the ball.
 
  • #3
Thanks,

I would further confirm this with my professor. Two professors(ours and one who has made those notes) told us that friction is that way.
 

Related to Direction of the frictional force

What is the direction of the frictional force?

The direction of the frictional force is opposite to the direction of the applied force. In other words, it acts in the opposite direction to the motion or attempted motion of the object.

Does the direction of the frictional force change?

Yes, the direction of the frictional force can change depending on the direction of the applied force. For example, if the applied force changes from pushing to pulling, the direction of the frictional force will also change.

What factors affect the direction of the frictional force?

The direction of the frictional force is affected by the surface roughness and the weight of the objects in contact. Rougher surfaces and heavier objects will result in a stronger frictional force, which can also affect its direction.

Can the direction of the frictional force be manipulated?

No, the direction of the frictional force is a natural phenomenon that cannot be manipulated. It is a result of the interaction between two surfaces and the forces acting on them.

How does the direction of the frictional force impact motion?

The direction of the frictional force can either assist or oppose motion. If the direction of the frictional force is opposite to the direction of motion, it will slow down or stop the object. If the direction of the frictional force is the same as the direction of motion, it can help to maintain or increase the object's speed.

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