Coefficient of Friction (μ)

Definition

The coefficient of friction is a value that represents the amount of friction between two surfaces in contact. It quantifies how easily one surface slides over another and depends on factors like roughness and material properties.

Analogy

Think about walking on different types of floors - carpet versus ice. When walking on carpet, there is more resistance and your shoes grip better due to higher friction (higher coefficient). On ice, however, there is less resistance and your shoes slide easily due to lower friction (lower coefficient).

Related terms

Kinetic Friction: The frictional force experienced between two surfaces in relative motion with respect to each other.

Rolling Friction: The resistive force encountered when an object rolls over another surface.

Static Frictional Force: The opposing force acting on an object at rest, preventing it from moving when an external force is applied.