Friction Force Calculator

f = μ × N. Force resisting motion between contacting surfaces.

Inputs

Rubber on dry asphalt: ~0.7-0.9. Steel on steel: ~0.1-0.6. Ice: ~0.02-0.1.

Result

Friction force (kinetic)
150.00 N
μ = 0.3 × N = 500 N.
  • μ0.3
  • Normal force500 N
  • Friction150.0000 N
  • Typekinetic

Step-by-step

  1. f = μ × N = 0.3 × 500 = 150.0000 N.
  2. Kinetic: friction during motion (typically μ_k < μ_s).

How to use this calculator

  • Enter μ for the surfaces in contact.
  • Enter normal force.
  • Pick static or kinetic.

About this calculator

Friction force = coefficient × normal force. Coefficient depends on material pair: rubber on dry asphalt 0.7-0.9, rubber on wet asphalt 0.4-0.6, steel on steel 0.1-0.6, ice on ice 0.02-0.1. Static friction (μ_s) prevents starting motion; kinetic (μ_k) opposes ongoing motion. Almost always μ_s > μ_k — this is why a stuck box suddenly slides easily once it breaks free.

Frequently asked

Empirical — measured for material pairs. Hyperphysics, NIST tables, or engineering handbooks list standard values.

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