Common Coefficients of Kinetic Friction

Renate Fiora

The coefficient of kinetic friction varies with the type of surface.

• Smoother surfaces are more slippery.

• Just think about sliding across these surfaces:– A shag carpet– A freshly waxed hardwood floor– An ice rink

• The more slippery the surface, the less the coefficient of friction is for it.

Common Coefficients

Materials Kinetic Friction coefficient, µ

Rubber on concrete 0.80Steel on steel (dry) 0.60

Steel on steel (lubricated)

0.05

Wood on wood 0.20Wood on snow 0.06

Ice on ice 0.03