[Physics] How to minimize the coefficient of static/kinetic friction

frictionphysical constants

Static frictional force depends on the coefficient of static friction; kinetic frictional force depends on the coefficient of kinetic friction. To minimize friction, one of two things could happen: Normal force could be minimized, or the coefficient of static/kinetic friction could be minimized. In a lot of real-world scenarios, however, it is hard to minimize the normal force between two objects, and so minimizing the coefficient of static/kinetic friction is important.

What techniques exist to minimize the coefficient of static/kinetic friction?

Best Answer

In general, smoothing the surface, changing the interaction from sliding to rolling, adding (air) space between the surfaces, and adding lubrication (oil, graphite, teflon, ball bearings, air cushion...) are the most common techniques.