Choose the INCORRECT statement regarding static friction.

Explanation:

Static Friction

Static friction is the force that resists the initiation of sliding motion between two surfaces that are in contact and at rest. It adjusts to be exactly equal and opposite to the applied force until the limit of static friction is reached. The following statements describe various aspects of static friction:

• When the applied force is less than the limiting friction, the body remains at rest. This statement is correct because static friction will adjust to balance the applied force, preventing motion.

• The force of friction depends upon the area of contact between the two surfaces. This statement is incorrect. Static friction depends on the nature of the surfaces and the normal force, but not on the contact area.

• The force of static friction is a self-adjusting force; its magnitude is exactly equal and opposite to the applied force, which tends to produce motion. This statement is correct because static friction adjusts to match the applied force up to its maximum limit.

• If the surfaces are dry (not lubricated), then friction between surfaces is known as solid friction. This statement is correct because the term "solid friction" refers to friction between dry surfaces.