Question

Question #97d35

Answer 1

Friction will continue to face the same direction as before (assuming the car is going in a straight line).

Explanation:

Frictional force, `(F_"F")`, is defined as a force that prevents an object from moving in a direction, or at least slows it down.

Thus, if an car is moving west at a constant speed, friction is causing it to not move but the force isn't strong enough to do so. Friction still exists but does not balance the force of the acceleration of the car. As a result, the force faces the opposite direction of the direction of motion.

If the car were to brake, friction causes the car to gradually slow down.

This is where I believe you got confused. Although the car is still moving west (while braking), friction continues to face the east direction. Acceleration is now towards east rather west, since the car is now breaking.

These diagrams display the relationship between velocity, acceleration, and friction.

Hope this helps :)