How does rolling friction compare to static and kinetic friction?

Rolling friction is generally understood to be less than both static and kinetic friction. This is because rolling friction involves a wheel or cylindrical object making contact with a surface. When an object rolls, it minimizes the contact area with the surface compared to sliding, which reduces the resistance encountered.

Static friction is the force that needs to be overcome for an object to start moving from rest, and it is usually higher because it requires overcoming the adhesion between the surfaces at rest. Kinetic friction, which occurs when an object is sliding over a surface, is also higher than rolling friction due to the continuous surface contact and the energy losses associated with sliding.

The characteristics of rolling friction make it a crucial factor in the design of wheels, bearings, and other mechanical systems, as it allows for smoother motion with less energy loss compared to sliding friction scenarios. Thus, the statement that rolling friction is less than both static and kinetic friction accurately reflects the principles of physics involved in these types of friction.