FORCES AND SHAPE

3 marks · Normal

Explain why friction is essential for a person to walk on the ground. What would happen if there were no friction between your shoes and the surface?

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Friction provides the grip that allows our feet to push against the ground, enabling forward movement. Without friction, feet would slip and walking would not be possible.

Also accept: We would slip and fall if there were no friction.

Common mistakes: Saying only that shoes would move without explaining the inability to walk

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Marking points

B1 · 1 mark · Explains friction provides grip between feet and ground.

B2 · 1 mark · States friction is needed to push against the ground or move forwards.

B3 · 1 mark · States there would be slipping or inability to walk without friction.

Worked solution

Friction between shoes and ground allows you to push backwards on the ground, so the ground pushes you forwards (Newton's third law). Without friction, your feet would slide backwards and you wouldn't move forwards properly.