Which type of friction requires the least amount of energy to overcome?

Fluid friction is the type of friction that requires the least amount of energy to overcome, particularly when discussing the movement of an object through a fluid (liquid or gas). This is primarily due to the fact that fluid friction generally involves less resistance compared to the other types of friction.

In the context of fluid friction, objects experience a continuous, smooth movement through the fluid, which creates a relatively low drag force. This makes it easier for objects to move without requiring significant energy, especially when compared to static friction, which must overcome the resistance of stationary surfaces, or kinetic friction, which acts on moving surfaces and typically has a higher coefficient than fluid friction.

Rolling friction, although typically lower than static and kinetic friction, still involves some energy loss due to deformation of the surfaces in contact. Fluid friction, however, benefits from the properties of the fluid medium, allowing for efficient movement with minimal energy expenditure when an object is in motion through the fluid.