Page 124 - Viva ICSE Science 4 : E-book

How to Prevent Friction?

In our daily life, there are situations where we need to
Did You Know!
increase or decrease the friction to bring about a desired
Wheels reduce friction
result. Since it is impossible to completely get rid of the but they also cannot work

friction, it can be only reduced using some materials like without friction.
grease, oil and powder. These materials are called lubricants.

They smoothen the surfaces that rub against each other, thereby reducing friction.
• Oil and grease are applied to the moving parts of

a machine to reduce friction and prevent those
parts from damage. A very common example

is the oiling of bicycle chain and application of
grease on the moving parts of the engine. Usually
we put oil on the hinges of doors when they make

squeaking sound. They also move smoothly due
to lubrication.

• Powder is also used to reduce friction. For
example, we sprinkle powder on the carrom

board before playing as it makes the movement
of the striker and the carrom coins easier on
the board.

• Friction can also be reduced by polishing the surfaces
smooth. Slides in the parks are polished to reduce friction

so that the children can slide easily.

• Rollers and wheels also reduce friction. For example, rollers
of luggage bags help reduce friction and it becomes easier

to pull them.

110