What is Static Friction? | A Physics Lesson

In this video, we go over what static friction is and how it applies to our daily lives. Friction is a force that opposes the motion of an object. Static friction, in particular, is a type of friction that prevents an object from initially moving. Rougher materials have more areas to catch on each other which is why it’s easier to slide on some materials.

If you start to push an object into motion lightly, it will first resist that motion because the force of static friction is opposing the applied force. The more you push or pull, the more that static force you’ll feel until you apply enough of a force that exceeds the maximum static force.

These videos are quick big picture ideas of physics concepts that you'll encounter in a typical AP Physics, IB Physics, or Undergraduate physics course. Feel free to ask questions or drop a comment.

Thanks to @RhettAllain for the clever friction experiment.

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[JohnCodes]

Wow i had no idea Davinci made box office movies, thank you for letting me know!

[anmolmehrotra]

A little suggestion to please add more theory and what is actually happening. I know that these videos can be and are not easy to make but the way you are making videos is very good and a little more knowledge would be much appreciated.

[ellem]

Point of confusion: at 1:48, you say that friction doesn't depend on surface area. But then at 3:10, you say that greater weight increases the number of contacts between the two surfaces. Wouldn't a greater area also increase the number of contact points between the two surfaces?

[ayberkulgen]

I start my Physics B.S. on Wednesday and it's great to watch your videos for a refreshment of memory!

[smartscience]

Hello physicist, I am 12 years old and I finished learning quantum physics and now I am trying to learn calculus and topology, and can you answer me this questions please:
Which theory do you believe that could solve the quantum gravity theory, is it the loop quantum gravity or string theory or a new theory?
Is graviton boson real? And if it was real can it solve the unifying field theory and the quantum gravity??
And Thank u👍🌹

[SonuSharma-hbox]

Static friction prevents objects from moving and is generally higher than the frictional force experienced by the same two objects when they are moving relative to each other. amazing 🤓 that l learned from science bro clear full concept of it I am ... . G for
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Kinetic friction

[sciencexdream]

please explain how heavier objects increase surface of contact?

[georginamagalymongeparada]

HOLA SOBRINO. SALUDOS. DE PARTE DE TU TIA GEORGINA MAGDALY MONGE PARADA. DESDE NICARAGUA

[RapidActionAnimations]

Amazing work here love learning physics and your videos explain it well! I would recommend some visuals though! :)

[michellebui]

Great video Wally! Thanks for making science fun!