Racing car and frictional forces question

In summary, the racing car has a mass of 950kg and accelerates from 30km/h to 170km/h over a distance of 220 meters, with frictional forces and wind resistance of 750N. To maintain a speed of 250km/h, the car requires a power output that can be found using the relation between power and force. For the first part of the question, either work-energy relationships or kinematic equations can be used to determine the tractive force produced by the car.
  • #1
dansbr
10
0
1. A racing car of mass 950kg accelerates from 30km/h to 170km/h over a distance of 220 meters. Frictional forces and wind resistance can be assumed to be 750N.

Determine the tractive force produced by the car to provide this acceleration

The car finally reaches a speed of 250km/h. Friction and wind resistance are 1900N at this speed. What power output is required is required to maintain this speed.


3. Am completely new to this type of question so any help would be greatly appreciated
 
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  • #2
You should at least have some elementary equations somewhere.
Can you determine the kinetic energy of an object moving with known velocity and mass?
If the car accelerates, does this change?
Can you find a relation between a change in kinetic energy and a force?

For the second part, do you know a relation between power and force?
 
  • #3
so should i use KE=MV² and P=Fv
 
  • #4
Power is force times velocity as you typed above.

The first part of the problem where you seek the tractive force can be done by either work-energy relationships or by kinematic equations such as V1^2-V2^2 = 2*a*s followed by F=m*a + friction/wind.
 
  • #5
dansbr said:
so should i use KE=MV² and P=Fv
There is a factor of 2 missing in the first equation. The second equation is useful for the second part, right.
 

Related to Racing car and frictional forces question

1. What are frictional forces in a racing car?

Frictional forces in a racing car are the resistive forces that act against its motion due to the contact between the surfaces of the car and the road. These forces are generated by the interaction between the tires and the road surface, and they play a crucial role in controlling the speed and handling of the car.

2. How do frictional forces affect the performance of a racing car?

Frictional forces can either enhance or hinder the performance of a racing car. On one hand, they provide the necessary grip to keep the car stable and allow it to accelerate, brake, and turn effectively. On the other hand, excessive frictional forces can cause the tires to overheat and wear out, leading to a decrease in performance and potentially causing accidents.

3. How can racers reduce frictional forces in their cars?

Racers can reduce frictional forces in their cars by using specialized tires with higher levels of grip and by making sure the tires are properly inflated. They can also improve aerodynamics to reduce air resistance, which can also contribute to frictional forces. Additionally, keeping the car clean and free of debris can help to reduce the amount of friction between the car and the road surface.

4. Are there different types of frictional forces in a racing car?

Yes, there are three main types of frictional forces in a racing car: static friction, rolling friction, and sliding friction. Static friction is the force that prevents the wheels from slipping on the road surface when the car is stationary. Rolling friction occurs when the wheels are in motion, and it is responsible for the car's acceleration and deceleration. Sliding friction, also known as kinetic friction, occurs when the wheels lose traction and start sliding on the road surface, which can cause the car to lose control.

5. How can racers use frictional forces to their advantage?

Racers can use frictional forces to their advantage by taking advantage of the grip provided by the tires to maintain control of the car while maneuvering through turns and corners. They can also use frictional forces to slow down the car by applying the brakes, which creates a frictional force that opposes the car's motion. Additionally, racers can use the concept of rolling resistance to conserve energy and increase the overall speed and performance of the car.

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