True/False: Traction is the maximum frictional force that can be produced between surfaces without slipping.

• A. True
• B. Sometimes
• C. Not enough information
• D. False

Answer: (D)

Traction is the grip that tires have to transfer force to the road, allowing you to accelerate, brake, or corner without sliding. It is not itself the maximum frictional force. The largest friction available without slipping is the static friction limit, which equals the coefficient of static friction times the normal force (mu_s * N). In practice, the actual friction force you use can be less than that maximum; if you demand more than mu_s * N, slipping begins and the friction force drops to a lower value (kinetic friction). So the statement is false because traction describes the capability to transmit force up to that limit, not the exact maximum frictional force itself.