Why does friction slow down moving things?

Answer 1

When you rub 2 surfaces u are obstructed by a force acting in the opposite direction known as frictional force. Now looking at it in the micro scale no material is ever completely smooth. More u look in a magnified view you will see at the molecular level the surface of the material is never a complete flat portion. the shape may be for eg. ^^^^^^ so when you rub 2 such surfaces then energy is needed to cross over such peaks and hence a freely moving body slows down eventually

Answer 2

Friction is a force that acts in the opposite direction of motion, creating resistance. When objects are in contact with each other, surface irregularities and intermolecular forces cause friction to generate heat and slow down the movement of the objects.

Answer 3

You may be thinking of drag instead of friction. Friction between the floor and your foot increases your speed.

Answer 4

Because friction is when an object resists to another object moving on it, slowing it down. Usually the energy of the moving object is converted to thermal energy.