Friction: Static and kinetic
![]() Everything You Need in One PlaceHomework problems? Exam preparation? Trying to grasp a concept or just brushing up the basics? Our extensive help & practice library have got you covered. | ![]() Learn and Practice With EaseOur proven video lessons ease you through problems quickly, and you get tonnes of friendly practice on questions that trip students up on tests and finals. | ![]() Instant and Unlimited HelpOur personalized learning platform enables you to instantly find the exact walkthrough to your specific type of question. Activate unlimited help now! |
Make math click 🤔 and get better grades! 💯Join for Free

Get the most by viewing this topic in your current grade. Pick your course now.
Intros
Examples
Lessons
- Understanding kinetic vs. static friction
Joe wants to pull his 136 kg fridge away from the wall to clean behind it. When he pulls on the fridge with a horizontal force of 155 N, it doesn't move.
i. What is the force of friction that acts on the fridge? What type of friction is this?
ii. If the coefficient of friction between the fridge and floor is 0.200, what is the maximum amount of static friction that can act on the fridge?
iii. Joe gets Samantha to pull with an additional 155 N and the fridge begins to accelerate at 0.400 . What is the coefficient of friction between the fridge and the ground? What type of friction is this?
- Solving friction problems
- A crate is pushed across the floor. The coefficient of friction between the crate and the floor is 0.240. If 167 N of applied force is required to keep the crate moving forwards at a constant velocity, find the mass of the crate.
A physics student presses a 0.700 kg textbook against a wall with a force of 30.0 N perpendicular to the wall, and the book does not slide down the wall.
i. What is the force of friction acting on the book? What kind of friction is this?
ii. The student slowly reduces their push. If the book begins to slide when the student pushes with 20.0 N, what is the coefficient of friction?