Question

In which of the following scenarios is friction of benefit?

a) An airplane in the sky
b) Hiking through a forest
c) A cyclist in a road race
d) A rowboat moving across a lake

Answer 1

Friction is of benefit in a rowboat moving across a lake because it allows the oars to grip the water and propel the boat forward.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the scenario of a rowboat moving across a lake, friction is of benefit. The force that moves the boat forward is caused by friction between the oars and the water.
The friction allows the oars to grip the water and propel the boat forward.