Page 127 - Big Ideas Year 10 sciPAD 2025

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SCIPAD - BIG IDEAS - BOOK 2
FORCES AND MOTION
Friction
Friction is a force that occurs when two objects rub together. For solid objects, the effects of
friction can be reduced if the surfaces of the two objects are lubricated (with water or oil, etc.).
Friction can be increased by making one or more of the surfaces rougher or by pressing them
together more strongly. Friction that occurs when an object moves through a fluid, such as air or
water, is called drag.
1. Complete the following table to identify when friction is wanted or not wanted. If it is
wanted, outline how the force of friction can be increased. If it is not wanted, outline how
the force of friction can be decreased.
Example Friction wanted
or not wanted? How can it be increased/decreased?
Tyres on the road
Hands on the steering
wheel
Brakes
Air on the windscreen
Nuts on the wheels
Moving parts inside the
engine
2. Define the term ‘drag’.

3. Four of the NZ Secondary Schools Race Team vehicles are shown below.
Driver Transport Vehicle Transport Support Vehicle
(a) Identify which vehicle would create the least amount of drag when moving.

(b) Outline why you chose this vehicle. 


(c) Identity which vehicle would create the most amount of drag when moving.

(d) Outline why you chose this vehicle. 


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