How Do Physics Formulas Explain the Function of Crumple Zones?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the physics of crumple zones in vehicles, particularly focusing on the application of physics formulas to understand their function in reducing forces during collisions. Participants explore concepts related to impulse, momentum, and the effectiveness of crumple zones in enhancing safety during impacts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks physics formulas related to crumple zones for an assignment, indicating a need for foundational knowledge in the topic.
  • Another participant notes that there is no specific formula for crumple zones but suggests using various equations to demonstrate how crumple zones decrease the force experienced by occupants during a collision.
  • A participant explains that crumple zones function by increasing the time over which momentum is lost during a collision, thereby reducing impulse, which is defined as the product of mass and velocity.
  • There is a mention of a website that provides calculations related to impulse, although the link provided initially has issues that are later corrected by another participant.
  • A question is raised about the effects of hitting the side of a crumple zone, indicating a curiosity about different impact scenarios.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the role of crumple zones in reducing forces during collisions through the concept of impulse, but there is no consensus on specific formulas or calculations applicable to the topic. The discussion remains exploratory with multiple viewpoints presented.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty regarding the existence of specific formulas for crumple zones and rely on broader physics concepts such as impulse and momentum. The discussion does not resolve the complexities of calculating forces in various collision scenarios.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students working on assignments related to vehicle safety, physics enthusiasts interested in the application of physics in real-world scenarios, and individuals exploring the mechanics of collisions and their implications for design in automotive engineering.

Priebe
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I have been given an assignment on crumple zones. For part of the assignment we have to use physics formulas, I have searched but so far I haven't found any so if anyone could give me some physics formulas that would relate to this topic it would be most appreciated. This is for a science 21 assignment which is basically a mix of all sciences.
 
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There is no exact formula for crumple zones (that i am aware of) but through using a range of other equations to prove that the crumple zone 'decrease force' on the driver. I have done a few question on crumple zones in my time and many asked the use of the force equation.

soz i can't help you much
 
Thanks for the help anyway. Hopefully there is some sort of physics formula that relates to it. If there are any that even loosely relate to crumple zones I will have them, every bit helps.
 
Crumple zones serve as a disposable pillow in the case when 2 cars collide. When they collide, the momentum will be lost. How quickly they lose their momentum is called impulse ( rate at which momentum changes

The longer the car takes to lose its momentum, the smaller the impulse. Crumple Zone reduces the impulse by increasing the impact time.

Impulse is what causes fatality.

Impulse = Mass x Velocity

See this website, to help calcuate Impulse and see how to calcuate other unknowns.

"http://www.ajdesigner.com/phpimpulse/impulse_equation_impulse.php"

Hope this helps

Adam
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Thank you that is what I was after. Thanks for the help.

By the way that link doesn't work you need to remove one of the http: things and the quotations marks. I got the link working and got to the site, it will help a lot thanks
 
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What happens when you hit the side of the crumple zone?
 

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