Best acceleration torque or horsepower?

In summary, the acceleration of a car at any instant is dependent on the torque and gear ratio, not the rpm. However, for a fixed gear ratio, the acceleration will be highest at the peak torque, as peak power always occurs at a higher rpm than peak torque. Therefore, the car accelerates best at the max power rpm.
  • #1
tos001
3
0
i want to ask that in same gear which is true?
a)car accelerates best at the max torque rpm
or
b)car accelerates best at the max horse power rpm

which is true and why
we talk these conditions at same gear
thanks
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF!

Is this homework or an internet argument question or something? Because it is a bit of a trick question.

The acceleration at any instant in time depends on the torque and gear ratio, and the rpm isn't a relevant part of that. So since power is a function of rpm, the power isn't what determines the acceleration: the torque does. So the acceleration is highest at the highest torque.
 
  • #3
russ_watters said:
Welcome to PF!

Is this homework or an internet argument question or something? Because it is a bit of a trick question.

The acceleration at any instant in time depends on the torque and gear ratio, and the rpm isn't a relevant part of that. So since power is a function of rpm, the power isn't what determines the acceleration: the torque does. So the acceleration is highest at the highest torque.

The acceleration at any instant depends only on the power delivered and the current speed. Best acceleration at any speed occurs with a gear ratio such that the engine is operating at peak power, not peak torque. For a fixed gear ratio, the acceleration will be best at peak torque, true, but that's because acceleration at a fixed power output is inversely proportional to v2 (since power is the rate of kinetic energy increase), and the peak power will always occur at a higher RPM than peak torque.
 

1. What is the difference between acceleration, torque, and horsepower?

Acceleration is the rate at which an object's velocity changes over time. Torque is the rotational force applied to an object. Horsepower is a unit of power that measures how quickly work can be done.

2. Which is more important for determining a vehicle's speed - acceleration, torque, or horsepower?

All three factors play a role in determining a vehicle's speed. However, horsepower is typically the most important factor, as it represents the overall power of the engine.

3. How can I increase my vehicle's acceleration, torque, or horsepower?

There are several ways to increase a vehicle's acceleration, torque, or horsepower, including adding a turbocharger or supercharger, upgrading the exhaust system, and tuning the engine.

4. What is the best way to measure a vehicle's acceleration, torque, and horsepower?

Acceleration can be measured using a variety of tools, such as an accelerometer or a GPS-based performance meter. Torque and horsepower are typically measured on a dynamometer, which calculates the amount of force and power produced by an engine.

5. How do electric vehicles compare in terms of acceleration, torque, and horsepower?

Electric vehicles have instant torque, meaning they can accelerate quickly from a complete stop. However, their top speed and horsepower may be limited compared to traditional combustion engine vehicles. It ultimately depends on the specific make and model of the electric vehicle.

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