Friction = force generated in resistance to movement There are two kinds of friction: static and kinetic. 1. Static friction keeps objects from moving as long as the applied force is less than the static friction. Once the applied force exceeds the maximum static friction, an object begins to move. 2. Friction remains in play here, but now it slows down a moving object, instead of keeping one in place. This kind of friction is called kinetic friction. Friction in relation to rock climbing In climbing, static friction is created against the rock (or plastic, wood, whatever you climb on) and our hands, feet, and body. If enough static friction exists, we can move against it and progress ourselves along a sequence; however, if we generate more force than the static friction, hands and feet slip, and we fall. The amount of force friction generated and the type of force required to perform a move depend on the specifics of the rock type, shape, and texture, as well as your body’s orientation, environment, and a plethora of other factors. Some of these factors (often involving the rock), we cannot really control. Other factors, however, we can control: Sweat reduces friction between our hands and rock, so we use chalk to help to dry out our hands. Hand position affects how we can apply a force, so we often test a hand hold different ways to see which way “feels” best and gives the most secure grip. The tensile strength of rope helps in trekking. The amount of force that a rope can withstand before breaking or failing is measured by its tensile strength. When trekking, it's crucial to use a rope with enough tensile strength to make sure it can withstand the weight and pressures the rope will be subjected to. This comprises the stresses that may be applied to the rope while it is in use, such as when it is being used to anchor a climber. It also includes the weight of the climbers and any equipment that they are carrying. Using a rope with insufficient tensile strength can be dangerous, as it may break or fail unexpectedly. Thus, the rope being used must have proper tensile strength.