Misunderstanding in Fundamental Concept

In summary, the car crashes into a wall and the wall exerts a force that is opposite of the car's momentum. This causes the car to be crushed.
  • #1
Bashyboy
1,421
5
Okay, say a car is moving at a constant velocity and crashes into a wall. Now, observation would clearly illustrate to us that a destructive force was imparted onto the wall and the car. But how can that be if there there is no force, because there was a constant velocity? I must have some concept very misconstrued.
 
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  • #2
Bashyboy said:
Okay, say a car is moving at a constant velocity and crashes into a wall. Now, observation would clearly illustrate to us that a destructive force was imparted onto the wall and the car. But how can that be if there there is no force, because there was a constant velocity? I must have some concept very misconstrued.
The car is moving at constant velocity before it hits the wall. Once it hits the wall it is no longer moving at constant velocity--due to the force exerted on it by the wall.
 
  • #3
It may be worth considering exactly how force and momentum are related.
 
  • #4
Oh, yes, okay. So, then as the wall applies a force against the car, the car mutually engages in exchanging an opposite force. I must really think about the whole system when considering problems as such; I was thinking in terms of the car, but clearly the wall can incite an interchange of forces. Say the car doesn't crush under the force the wall provides, is this because the frame of the car was able to exert a force that is exactly opposite?
 
  • #5
Bashyboy said:
Say the car doesn't crush under the force the wall provides, is this because the frame of the car was able to exert a force that is exactly opposite?
No. Newton's 3rd law tells you that regardless of what happens to the car, both car and wall will always exert equal and opposite forces on each other. If the force is too much for the structure of the car to withstand, it will get crushed.
 
  • #6
Well, cars are usually engineered to have large impulse times, but considering an ideal frame made of some remarkably strong material, it could be that it won't be crushed in most normal car crash scenarios, but this is somewhat fanciful. However, the frame has a limited range of tolerance, and if the force is greater than it can bear, since both car and wall impart equal force upon one another, then the frame will be crushed regardless of the material.
 

1. What is a fundamental concept?

A fundamental concept is a basic idea or principle that serves as the foundation for understanding a particular subject or field. It is essential for building a strong understanding of more complex concepts and theories.

2. How do misunderstandings in fundamental concepts occur?

Misunderstandings in fundamental concepts can occur when individuals lack the necessary background knowledge or have incorrect assumptions about a concept. Additionally, miscommunication, different interpretations, and oversimplification can also lead to misunderstandings.

3. Why is it important to address misunderstandings in fundamental concepts?

Addressing misunderstandings in fundamental concepts is crucial because they can hinder learning and lead to incorrect conclusions. It can also impede progress in a particular field and prevent individuals from building a strong understanding of more complex concepts.

4. How can we prevent misunderstandings in fundamental concepts?

To prevent misunderstandings in fundamental concepts, it is essential to provide clear and accurate information, encourage critical thinking, and address any misconceptions or incorrect assumptions. Additionally, actively listening and promoting open communication can also help prevent misunderstandings.

5. Can misunderstandings in fundamental concepts be corrected?

Yes, misunderstandings in fundamental concepts can be corrected through education, clarification, and further exploration of the concept. It is also helpful to identify the root cause of the misunderstanding and address it directly. With effort and persistence, misunderstandings can be corrected, and a better understanding can be achieved.

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