Question

List three ways of reducing friction.

Answer 1

Ways to reduce friction:

1. Providing ball bearings or wheels between the moving parts of the machine or vehicles reduces friction and allow smooth movement as rolling friction is less than sliding friction.
2. Oiling or lubricating (with graphite or grease) the moving parts of a machine reduces friction. Fine powder like talcum powder also works as a lubricant to reduce friction.
3. Polishing the rough surface reduces friction offered by it.
4. Streamlining (giving special shape to experience minimum drag) the bodies of aeroplanes, cars, boats, and ships help reduce drag (fluid friction) while travelling through air or water.