What type of friction occurs when a tire rolls along the road surface?

The correct answer is that rolling friction occurs when a tire rolls along the road surface. This type of friction arises between the surface of the tire and the road when the tire is engaged in a rolling motion. Unlike sliding friction, which occurs when two surfaces slide against one another, rolling friction allows for movement with less resistance, making it more efficient for vehicles.

When a tire rolls, the contact point where the tire meets the road experiences deformation. This deformation allows the tire to grip the surface effectively, contributing to traction while minimizing energy loss. Rolling friction is generally lower than static or sliding friction, which means that vehicles can travel faster and more efficiently due to the reduced energy required to overcome this resistance.

Other types of friction listed in the options do not apply to the scenario described. Static friction pertains to an object at rest, sliding friction deals with surfaces moving against each other without rolling, and dynamic friction is a general term that can refer to both sliding and rolling motion but is not as specific as rolling friction in the context of tires on a road.