Question

In which of the following cases can plowing effect be a cause of friction between two surfaces in contact?

• A. When both the surfaces are rough
• B. When one of the surfaces is soft and can undergo deformation in its shape
• C. When both the surfaces are smooth
• D. When both the surfaces are hard and cannot undergo deformations in shape

Answer 1

The correct option is B When one of the surfaces is soft and can undergo deformation in its shape

When an object slides on a soft surface, the surface can deform and retard motion of the object. This is referred to as the plowing effect. Take the example of a brick sliding on a grass field to understand this better.