Forces and acceleration of truck and car collision

In summary, when a large truck collides with a small car, the force of the truck on the car is equal to the force of the car on the truck. However, the magnitude of acceleration of the truck is less than the magnitude of acceleration of the car. This is because of Newton's Third Law, which states that every action has an equal and opposite reaction. Additionally, the difference in mass between the two objects can also affect the acceleration. To fully understand this concept, you can look up Newton's Third Law and the formula relating force to acceleration. Welcome to PF!
  • #1
cheerios456c
1
0
A very large truck collides head on with a small car. At the instant of collision the force of the truck on the car is _________ the force of the car on the truck and the magnitude of the acceleration of the truck is __________ the magnitude of the acceleration of the car.

I know that the answer is equal to, less than but I'm having trouble understanding why. If someone could explain to me why this is, I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks!
 
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  • #2
Look up Newton's Third Law.
You'll need the formula relating force to acceleration to understand the second part.
 
  • #3
Welcome to PF.

The first answer "equal to" is from Newton's laws - usually the third one.
The second one "less than" is due to conservation of momentum... but can be understood from the first answer if you consider that the forces are equal but the masses are not. (Newton's second law.)

It looks like you are learning about Newton's Laws of motion.
 

1. What is the difference between mass and weight in a truck and car collision?

Mass refers to the amount of matter in an object, while weight is the force of gravity acting on an object. In a truck and car collision, both vehicles have different masses, but the force of the impact will depend on their respective weights as well.

2. How does the speed of the vehicles affect the force of the collision?

The speed of the vehicles has a direct impact on the force of the collision. The greater the speed, the greater the force of impact. This is because the kinetic energy (energy of motion) of the vehicles increases with speed, resulting in a stronger collision.

3. What role do friction and traction play in a truck and car collision?

Friction and traction are both important factors in a collision. Friction is the force that opposes motion, so it can help slow down the vehicles during impact. Traction refers to the grip or traction between the tires and the road, which can affect the stability and control of the vehicles during a collision.

4. How does the force of the collision affect the passengers in the vehicles?

The force of a collision can have serious effects on the passengers in the vehicles. It can cause injuries such as whiplash, broken bones, and even traumatic brain injuries. This is why it is important for vehicles to have safety features such as airbags and seatbelts to help absorb some of the force and protect the passengers.

5. Can the force of a truck and car collision be calculated?

Yes, the force of a collision can be calculated using the formula force = mass x acceleration. In a truck and car collision, the mass and acceleration of the vehicles can be measured to calculate the force of impact. However, there are many other factors that can also affect the force, such as the speed, angle of impact, and the type of collision (rear-end, head-on, etc.).

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