Question

Why is rolling friction less than sliding friction?

Answer 1

Rolling friction is the force resisting the motion when a body (such as a ball, tire, or wheel) rolls on a surface. Sliding friction is the force resisting the motion when a body slides on a surface. The force of friction depends on the area of contact between the two surfaces and also the nature of bodies. As the area of contact is less in the case of rolling than in the case of sliding, rolling friction is less than the sliding friction.