Average Power of a Car: How to Calculate and Understand It

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SUMMARY

The average power of a car can be calculated using the formula for power, which is Work divided by time. In this case, the mass of the car is 2000 kg, and it accelerates from 0 to 120 km/h in 3.5 seconds. To find the force, one must use the formula F=ma, where 'a' is the acceleration derived from the change in velocity over time. Utilizing the work-energy theorem simplifies the calculation by relating work done to kinetic energy without assuming constant acceleration.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law (F=ma)
  • Basic knowledge of kinematics and acceleration
  • Familiarity with the work-energy theorem
  • Ability to convert units (e.g., km/h to m/s)
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to apply the work-energy theorem in various scenarios
  • Study unit conversions, specifically from km/h to m/s
  • Explore advanced kinematics, including non-constant acceleration
  • Investigate real-world applications of average power calculations in automotive engineering
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, automotive engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of vehicle performance calculations.

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Homework Statement


mass of a car is 2000 kg that can go from 0-120 km/h in 3.5 seconds. What is the average power?

Homework Equations


I know that the average power is Work/time, or (force * displacement)/time = F*average velocity.

My only question is how to find the force of the car? is it just Mass*g?



The Attempt at a Solution

 
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F=ma

In this case, the acceleration is not g, but something else.

If you consider the acceleration to be constant, you can easily determine the acceleration from the time and speed given in the initial conditions
 
It's probably easier to use the work-energy theorem, which relates the work done to the kinetic energy. Then you don't have to assume that the acceleration was constant.
 

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