Abstract

Considering the current race to manufacture machine components with astoundingly small dimensions, what is today considered fundamental research on the atomic scale may give way tomorrow to direct applications. For instance, the authors now know why substances made of branched-chain molecules make better lubricant than straight-chain molecules, even though the branched-chain one are, in bulk form, more viscous. (They remain as a liquid under greater forces than do the straight-chained molecules and thus are better able to keep two solid surfaces from touching.) Nanotribologists working with known contact geometries may one day help chemists understand friction-induced reaction taking place on surfaces or aid materials scientists in designing substances that resist wear. As the need to conserve both energy and raw materials becomes more urgent, physicists` rush to understand basic frictional processes can be expected only to accelerate.

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