Force & Types of Friction Model

A metal frame with three inclined ramps of different surfaces: sandpaper, tape and plain iron. Slide the same object down each one and compare how easily it moves.

How it works

1. Place the same block or toy at the top of each ramp
2. Release it and watch how quickly it slides down
3. Compare the rough sandpaper ramp with the smooth iron ramp

What students learn

• Friction depends on the surfaces in contact
• Rough surfaces give more friction than smooth ones
• It takes more force to start an object moving than to keep it moving

Try these experiments

1. Time the slide on each ramp and record the results
2. Try objects of different materials on the same ramp
3. Discuss where friction helps us and where we try to reduce it

Curriculum fit

In the box

• Painted metal frame with three inclined ramps
• Ramp surfaces: sandpaper, tape and plain iron

Pairs well with

Newton's First LawPHY-101Viscosity ModelPHY-144