Published by:
CGP EDU Academic Team
Published on: September 12, 2026
It is unreasonable to expect the coefficient of friction to be more than unity.
Text Solution
Verified by ExpertsThe correct answer is:
A
Understanding the Coefficient of Friction:
The coefficient of friction (μ) is defined as the ratio of the force of friction (F_f) between two bodies to the normal force (N) pressing them together. Mathematically, this is expressed as:
$$ ext{F}_f = ext{μ} imes ext{N}$$
Step 1: Analyzing the definition:
The value of the coefficient of friction can be more than unity (μ > 1) in some specific situations. This occurs in scenarios where the material surfaces are extremely rough or sticky, or when other forces (such as adhesion forces) are at play.
Step 2: Understanding limits:
Nonetheless, in typical scenarios involving dry surfaces, the coefficient of friction usually ranges between 0 and 1. This is due to the microscopic interactions between the surfaces and the limitations of how much friction can occur between two objects without movement.
Conclusion:
While it is possible for μ to exceed 1 under certain conditions, it is generally found to be unreasonable to expect the coefficient of friction to be consistently greater than unity in everyday circumstances. Hence, the statement stands true.
The coefficient of friction (μ) is defined as the ratio of the force of friction (F_f) between two bodies to the normal force (N) pressing them together. Mathematically, this is expressed as:
$$ ext{F}_f = ext{μ} imes ext{N}$$
Step 1: Analyzing the definition:
The value of the coefficient of friction can be more than unity (μ > 1) in some specific situations. This occurs in scenarios where the material surfaces are extremely rough or sticky, or when other forces (such as adhesion forces) are at play.
Step 2: Understanding limits:
Nonetheless, in typical scenarios involving dry surfaces, the coefficient of friction usually ranges between 0 and 1. This is due to the microscopic interactions between the surfaces and the limitations of how much friction can occur between two objects without movement.
Conclusion:
While it is possible for μ to exceed 1 under certain conditions, it is generally found to be unreasonable to expect the coefficient of friction to be consistently greater than unity in everyday circumstances. Hence, the statement stands true.
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