In today’s guide we’ll be looking at various examples of rolling friction.

But before then, Let’s have a quick recap on rolling friction.

Overview

Overview of Rolling Friction

Rolling friction is the friction force that resists the rolling motion of an object against a surface.

Also known as rolling resistance or rolling drag,

It is the friction that exists between the contact surface of rolling object.

Before an object can roll, the force applied on the object must first overcome the rolling friction.

Rolling friction possesses the least friction force when compared to other friction types which include:

Static friction: friction force between an object at rest relative to a surface.

Kinetic friction: friction force between surfaces that moves or slides relative to each other.

In a hurry and won’t be able to stick to the end?

See this quick summary below.

Examples of Rolling Friction

Whenever a rolling object is tossed against a surface, it’s bound to experience rolling friction. 

Some examples of objects that experiences rolling friction includes:

1. Rolling paint brush
2. Ball bearing
3. Lawn tennis
4. Office chairs with base rollers
5. Bowling ball and Golf ball
6. Antiperspirant roller
7. Wheels
8. Football, basketball, baseball
9. Car tires, bike tires, skateboard and trolley tires

Picture Slides of Rolling Friction examples

This section is added to enhance understanding and better retention..

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Common Examples of Rolling Friction in Everyday life

• A ball rolling on a smooth surface will encounter lesser rolling resistance compared to a ball rolling on a rough surface.

Did you know that smooth surfaces also contain tiny traces of rough plane when viewed on the microscopic level?

This microscopic unevenness is called surface irregularities.

• Rolling friction is dependent on the shape of the rolling object, a cylindrical shaped object will experience a higher friction drag than a spherical shaped object.

• Riding a rubber-wheeled bicycle on sand will yield more rolling resistance than riding on concrete.
• It is easier to push an empty shopping cart than a loaded cart because of the lower rolling resistance in the former. (rolling friction is weight dependent).
• Smooth tires offer better traction in smooth roads and dry surfaces because of its high rolling friction in such surface conditions.
• Also, threaded tires offer better traction in muddy roads and wet surfaces because of its high rolling friction in such surface conditions.

• It is difficult to push a car with a flat or deformed tire compared to one with to tire defect because of the high friction drag.