1. Slows them down: Friction acts as an opposing force to the direction of motion. This means it constantly tries to resist the object's movement, causing it to lose speed. Think about a car slowing down when you apply the brakes – that's friction working!

2. Generates heat: Friction creates heat energy as the surfaces rub against each other. This is why your hands get warm when you rub them together, and why things get hot when you brake a car.