Why Speed Limit for Vehicle Skidding Independent of Mass

  • Thread starter andrewtsoi34
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In summary, the limiting speed of a vehicle without skidding is independent of its mass due to factors such as weight distribution, tire compounds and quality, and road surface conditions. This is why lorries may have a slower speed limit compared to cars, as their mass does not affect their stopping distance as much. The rotational motion of the wheels also plays a role, as the total kinetic energy is dependent on mass and rotational speed. However, when equating this to the frictional force and distance travelled, the mass of the vehicle cancels out. Therefore, the urgent question of why lorries have a lower speed limit can be answered by understanding the principles of rotational motion and friction.
  • #1
andrewtsoi34
1
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Skidding problem [Urgent]

Why the limiting speed of the venhicle without skidding is independent of its mass?

For example, why lorries may have to go at a slower speed than the 25m/s
limit for cars

But why this does't depend on the mass but the speed:confused:
 
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  • #2
It's dependent upon a lot of things, not the least of which is mass. Other factors include weight distribution, tire compounds and quality, road surface conditions, etc.. I'll leave the details for others more versed in the matter.
 
  • #3
andrew...if you have studied rotational motion and the parallel axis theorem then here is how it goes...snece the vehicle is rolling...the total kinectic energy possesed by it is .5mv^2+.5Iw^2...were i is the rotational inertia and w is rotational spped...since the i for wheels is .25mr^2..think u so...then..we can eqaute this to the firctional energy...which is equivalent to the friction force times the distance travelled...u know that frictional force is dependent on the mass of vehicle...hce...if we would equate these variable...mass would get canceled of!...
 
  • #4
I love these "urgent" vehicular motion questions.

I imagine andrew furiously typing away on his laptop in the car. "Urgent! What is the braking distance on a 97 Chevy?"
Followed 20 seconds later by "Never mind..."
 
  • #5
A lorry has a lower speed limit simply because it takes longer to stop normally. ( it probably stops just as quickly as any other vehicle if it hits a wall though... almost)
 

1. What is the relationship between vehicle speed limit and skidding?

The speed limit for a vehicle is the maximum safe speed at which it is recommended to travel. Skidding occurs when a vehicle's tires lose traction with the road surface. There is no direct relationship between the two, as skidding can occur at any speed depending on various factors such as road conditions, tire quality, and driver behavior.

2. Why is the speed limit for skidding independent of vehicle mass?

The speed limit for skidding is independent of vehicle mass because it is primarily determined by the tire's ability to maintain traction with the road surface. The mass of a vehicle may affect the stopping distance and impact of a skid, but it does not directly impact the speed at which skidding occurs.

3. Can a heavier vehicle skid at a different speed compared to a lighter vehicle?

Yes, a heavier vehicle may have a longer stopping distance and potentially cause more damage during a skid compared to a lighter vehicle. However, the speed at which skidding occurs is not significantly different between a heavier and lighter vehicle, as it is primarily determined by tire traction.

4. Are there any other factors besides speed that can cause skidding?

Yes, there are several other factors that can contribute to skidding, including road conditions (such as wet or icy surfaces), tire quality and tread depth, vehicle maintenance, and driver behavior (such as sudden braking or aggressive turning).

5. How can we prevent skidding while driving?

To prevent skidding while driving, it is important to maintain a safe and appropriate speed for the road conditions, regularly check tire pressure and tread depth, and avoid sudden or aggressive maneuvers. It is also recommended to practice defensive driving techniques and avoid distractions while behind the wheel.

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