Some pupils confuse friction and normal reaction, as both arise from an interaction between an object the surface it is sitting on
Forces and Motion
Misconception
Diagnostic Resources
Resource that Address This
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Friction between solid surfaces (11-16)
Source - Practical physics/ Force and motion/ Friction, turning and other effects
Part 3 explores the idea of normal force.
View Resource -
Episode 214: Work done by a force (16-19)
Source - TAP/ Work, energy and power
Activity 214-1 explores work done in raising a weight using a ramp. The explanation included both friction and normal force.
View Resource
References
The following studies have documented this misconception:
- Clement, J. () Students' alternative conceptions in mechanics: a coherent system of preconceptions? in H. Helm, and J. D. Novak (Eds), Proceedings of the International Seminar: Misconceptions in Science and Mathematics. Cornell University, Ithaca, NY.
310-315.