Calculating Deceleration Rate of a Car

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of determining the deceleration rate of a car with given information. It also mentions the use of Newton's laws of motion in such calculations.
  • #1
Timpo
2
0
I apologize for my ignorance, I'm an extreme newbie in physics.
Is it possible to determine the deceleration rate of a car only with following information?

initial velocity = 60mph (96km/h)
final velocity = 0mph (0km/h)
distance = 146ft (44.5m)

if so, how many distance would it take to stop from 60km/h (37.5mph)?

Thank you
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
[tex]v^2=u^2+2as[/tex]

v=Final velocity
u=initial velocity
a=acceleration
s=displacement.
 
  • #3
do a search for Newton's laws of motion. they are probably the most well known equations for scientists and engineers and worth remembering. there are a few other derivations than the one that rock freak has given you.
 
  • #4
thanks a lot guys!
 

1. How do you calculate deceleration rate of a car?

To calculate deceleration rate of a car, you need to measure its initial velocity and final velocity, and the time it takes to decelerate. Then, use the formula acceleration = (final velocity - initial velocity) / time to calculate the deceleration rate.

2. What units are used to measure deceleration rate?

Deceleration rate is usually measured in meters per second squared (m/s²) or feet per second squared (ft/s²). These units represent the change in velocity per unit of time.

3. How does the mass of the car affect its deceleration rate?

The mass of the car does not directly affect its deceleration rate. However, a heavier car may require more force to decelerate at the same rate as a lighter car, due to its greater inertia.

4. What factors can influence the deceleration rate of a car?

The deceleration rate of a car can be influenced by factors such as the condition of the brakes, road surface, and weather conditions. Other variables, such as the weight distribution of the car, can also affect the deceleration rate.

5. Can you use the deceleration rate to predict the stopping distance of a car?

Yes, by knowing the deceleration rate of a car and its initial velocity, you can calculate the stopping distance using the formula stopping distance = (initial velocity²) / (2 x deceleration rate). However, this calculation may not account for all variables and may vary in real-world situations.

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
11
Views
1K
Replies
10
Views
4K
  • Classical Physics
2
Replies
46
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
3K
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
Back
Top