Some students think that friction arises only when there is motion

Forces and Motion

Misconception RESEARCH REVIEW

Additionally, few students understand that the size of the friction force matches the externally applied force, up to a limit (for any given pair of surfaces).

Related to this conception is the idea that friction always hinders motion. When asked about the role of friction in a car, students often only explain its role in braking and struggle to unite friction with pushing the car forwards. 

Diagnostic Resources

The following worksheets may help to identify whether students hold this particular misconception.

For more information, see the University of York EPSE website.

These questions look at when there is--and when there is not--a friction force on an object. Some pupils may think friction ‘switches off’ when the object moves. Others may think friction only depends on the choice of surfaces, and so is present all the time.

EPSE Friction Q1
EPSE Friction Q2

Resource that Address This

  • Friction (11-14)

    This resource gives an accessible explanation of friction.

    View Resource

  • How can you tell if there is friction? (5-11)

    An activity to explore that friction exists between all surfaces, moving and tending to move - slip and grip.

    View Resource

  • Friction between solid surfaces (11-16)

    Part 4 of this resource is particularly relevant.

    View Resource

References

  • Clement, J. () Students' preconceptions in introductory mechanics. American Journal of Physics, 50 (1), 66-71.

  • Osborne, R. () "Building on Children's Intuitive Ideas" in R. Osborne & P. Freyberg (Eds.), Learning in Science. Heinemann, Auckland, 41-51.

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