Newton's second law for car force problem

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem related to Newton's second law, specifically focusing on the forces acting on a driver in a car experiencing deceleration due to air resistance. The scenario involves a car's speed reduction and the corresponding forces affecting an 80 kg driver.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster seeks guidance on which formula to use without wanting a direct answer, indicating a desire for tips. Some participants suggest applying Newton's second law to determine deceleration and the forces on the driver. There is also a clarification regarding the terminology of weight versus mass.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the application of Newton's second law. Some guidance has been provided regarding the use of acceleration in calculations, but there is no explicit consensus on the approach yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are discussing the implications of using 1.1g as a measure of acceleration, with the original poster expressing uncertainty about the terms used in the problem. There is a focus on ensuring clarity around the definitions of mass and weight.

Kahsi
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Hi.

I have this problem:

The fastest cars can travel at 350km/h. When you take the foot of the gaspedal the air will decrease the speed of the car. This leads to a retardation (I hope it's the right word for it) at 1.1 g. Which force (N) will affect the driver (80kg)? The weight of the car is 600 kg.

Which formula should I use? I don't want anyone to give me the answer just like that, instead I would like some tips.


Thank you in advance :smile:
 
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Use the Newton's second law to find the decelaration of the (car +driver) system. Again apply the same law to the driver alone using the above found decelaration to find the force on him.
 
Kahsi said:
The weight of the car is 600 kg.

You mean mass.
 
Yea, mass. Sorry.

Newtons second law

F = m * a

I have m (the mass) But I don't have the acceleration or the Force.
 
the 1.1g is the accelaration,
1g=9.8 m/s^2
 

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