Originally Posted by pondering_it_all
I think you have a misconception in your basic physics, Zeke.

Friction requires mechanical energy converted into heat: If you scuff your soles as you walk, that is friction. If you just walk normally and pick up your shoes and put them down along your path, there is no friction involved (other than a tiny bit as part of the sole expands as the weight on the foot increases and air resistance to your movement.)

Likewise, holding a pencil with your fingers involves no friction but the action of the pencil graphite against the paper does. Pounding in a nail creates a lot of friction (that's why nails get hot) but zero friction is generated once it is in there (that's why it cools). You give several examples and several of them do not involve friction.

Afraid the misconception is yours:

Friction

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