Question
Can static friction do nonzero work on an object? If yes, give an example. If no, give reason.
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Answer
Yes. Let us consider a block A which is resting on another block B. Block B is resting on a smooth horizontal surface. Let the coefficient of kinetic friction between the blocks be $\mu\text{k}.$
When a force F is applied on block B in the forward direction as shown in the above figure, block A moves with block B in the direction of the applied force. The friction force on block A and the displacement will be in the forward direction. Therefore, work done by the friction force is positive. In this case, block A will remain in contact with block B. This shows that static friction is doing a nonzero work on an object.
When a force F is applied on block B in the forward direction as shown in the above figure, block A moves with block B in the direction of the applied force. The friction force on block A and the displacement will be in the forward direction. Therefore, work done by the friction force is positive. In this case, block A will remain in contact with block B. This shows that static friction is doing a nonzero work on an object.
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