In what way do axles and wheels contribute to reducing friction?

Axles and wheels significantly reduce friction by enabling the load to roll instead of slide. When a load rolls on wheels, it moves over a smaller area compared to sliding, which increases the frictional forces as there is more surface contact. The rotation of the wheels on the axles allows for smoother motion, as the point of contact with the ground continually changes, leading to less resistance and energy loss. This rolling motion is inherently more efficient than sliding since it minimizes the friction that would otherwise occur if the object were dragged or pushed along a flat surface. Thus, the design of wheels and axles is crucial in facilitating movement with lower friction, enhancing the ease of transportation and the overall efficiency of mechanical systems.