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How to increase rolling friction?

May 6, 2023
written by Qamar Zaman

Rolling friction can be increased by changing factors such as the coefficient of rolling friction, the weight of the object, the size of the wheel, and the materials used. By understanding how these factors affect rolling friction, you can design machines and vehicles that have better traction and are more efficient.

How to increase rolling friction?

Rolling friction can be increased by changing certain factors that affect the interaction between two surfaces in contact. Here are some ways to increase rolling friction:

image showing How to increase rolling friction?
Rolling friction can be increased by changing factors such as the coefficient of rolling friction, the weight of the object, the size of the wheel, and the materials used. By understanding how these factors affect rolling friction, you can design machines and vehicles that have better traction and are more efficient.

1. Increase the Coefficient of Rolling Friction

As mentioned earlier, the coefficient of rolling friction represents how much resistance there is to rolling motion between two surfaces. To increase rolling friction, you can use materials with higher coefficients of rolling friction. For example, adding a layer of rubber or a textured surface to a wheel can increase the coefficient of rolling friction.

2. Increase the Weight of the Object

Rolling friction is directly proportional to the weight of the object. This means that increasing the weight of the object can increase the force of rolling friction. For example, adding weights to a car can increase the force of rolling friction between the wheels and the road, which can improve traction and reduce the risk of skidding.

3. Decrease the Size of the Wheel

Rolling friction is inversely proportional to the size of the wheel. This means that decreasing the size of the wheel can increase the force of rolling friction. For example, using smaller wheels on a cart can increase the force of rolling friction between the wheels and the ground, which can make it easier to push or pull.

4. Use Softer Materials

Softer materials can create more friction between two surfaces in contact, which can increase rolling friction. For example, using a rubber ball instead of a hard plastic ball in a game of soccer can increase the rolling friction and make the ball easier to control.