Why Does a Motorcycle Accelerate Faster Than a Large Truck?

[Nitrate]

Homework Statement

Use the concepts of momentum and Newton’s second law to explain why a motorcycle can accelerate at a greater rate than a large truck.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

The motorcycle will accelerate at a greater rate because of the truck has a greater mass (greater resistance to a change in speed.) This increased rate of acceleration is mathematically proven by the formula a= F/m, which states acceleration is inversely proportional to the mass.

I'm not sure how to add momentum into this paragraph. Is this answer good enough?

 

[thrill3rnit3]

Can you link momentum with Newton's 2nd law?

 

[Nitrate]

Can you link momentum with Newton's 2nd law?

I'm not sure how to.

 

[thrill3rnit3]

Momentum is defined as mass times velocity.
Acceleration is defined as the change in velocity divided by the change in time.

net force = mass times acceleration

 

[asteriatic]

While mass certainly plays a role in determining acceleration, momentum also plays a crucial role in explaining why a motorcycle can accelerate at a greater rate than a large truck. Momentum is defined as the product of an object's mass and velocity, and it is directly related to the object's inertia. In this case, the motorcycle has a lower mass and therefore a lower inertia compared to the truck. This means that the motorcycle can reach a higher velocity in a shorter amount of time, resulting in a greater acceleration. Additionally, the motorcycle's smaller size and streamlined design also contribute to its ability to accelerate quickly. On the other hand, the truck's larger mass and size create more resistance to change in motion, resulting in a slower acceleration. In summary, both momentum and mass play a role in explaining why a motorcycle can accelerate at a greater rate than a large truck.