Suspension: Spring Constant Calculation for 500 kg Car

In summary, to find the spring constant of the suspension of a car, we use the equation F = mg = -kx, where m is the mass of the car and x is the displacement caused by the car's weight. After some initial miscalculations, it was determined that the spring constant should actually be a relatively high value, around 1829333.333 N/m. However, one small error was corrected to account for the mass of the man in the car, resulting in a final answer of 196,000 N/m.
  • #1
Pao44445
47
0

Homework Statement


A guy is 60 kg and he gets in a car which is 500 kg. the center gravity of the car is 0.3 cm lower, find the spring constant of the suspension

Homework Equations


F = -kx
F = mg

The Attempt at a Solution



I got the answer but it s very low valve, the springs of the car should be high, don't they?
here 's my equation
There are 2 forces acting on the car, Weight and Restoring Force of springs then
mg = -kx
( 560 kg )( -9.8 m/s2 ) = - (k) ( 0.3x10-2 m )
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
How low ?
 
  • #3
BvU said:
How low ?
sorry,my mistake
I've re calculated it, I got a pretty high valve instead, does it this valve is possible?
k = ( 560 kg )( 9.8 m/s2 )( 102 ) / 0.3
k = 1829333.333 N/m
 
  • #4
Not that low, then. But wrong.
There is one small thing: the 0.3 cm is caused by how many kilograms ?
 
  • #5
60 kg of a man, oops
k = ( 60 kg )( 9.8 m/s2 )( 102 ) / 0.3
k = 196,000 N/m
 
  • #6
Way to go ! Well done.
 

1. How do you calculate the spring constant for a 500 kg car?

The spring constant can be calculated by dividing the weight of the car (500 kg) by the distance the spring compresses when the car is placed on it. This distance is known as the deflection or displacement of the spring and is usually measured in meters.

2. What is the significance of the spring constant in suspension systems?

The spring constant determines the stiffness of the suspension system, which affects the car's handling, stability, and comfort. A higher spring constant results in a stiffer suspension, providing better handling and stability, but may sacrifice comfort. A lower spring constant results in a softer suspension, providing a smoother ride but may compromise handling and stability.

3. What factors can affect the spring constant of a car's suspension system?

The spring constant can be affected by various factors, including the type and quality of the springs, the design of the suspension system, and the weight of the car. The temperature and condition of the springs can also impact the spring constant.

4. Can the spring constant be adjusted in a car's suspension system?

Yes, the spring constant can be adjusted by changing the type of springs or by adjusting the position of the springs. Different types of springs, such as coil springs or leaf springs, have different spring constants, and their placement and orientation in the suspension system can also affect the spring constant.

5. How does the spring constant affect the overall performance of a car?

The spring constant plays a crucial role in the performance of a car, influencing its handling, stability, and comfort. A well-matched spring constant ensures that the car has optimal balance and responsiveness, providing a smooth and safe driving experience.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
841
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
750
Replies
5
Views
183
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
6K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
372
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
967
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
Back
Top