Brakes on a car-Energy related question

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the energy considerations related to car brakes, particularly focusing on the importance of effective braking systems for fast-moving vehicles. Participants explore the physical constraints that need to be optimized for safe braking performance.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the necessity of friction in braking systems and the need for brakes to dissipate heat energy effectively. Questions are raised about the relationship between kinetic energy, mass, and velocity in the context of braking efficiency.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants sharing insights about the requirements for braking systems under different conditions. Some guidance has been offered regarding the need for brakes to manage kinetic energy and heat dissipation, while various interpretations of the problem are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the implications of different scenarios, such as the effects of mass and velocity on braking performance, and the challenges posed by specific driving conditions like steep hills.

alingy1
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In terms of energy, why does a car going fast absolutely needs good brakes? What are the main physical constraints to optimize?

Friction should be increased. But, that's what I pretty much I have to say. What else could be said? I've been racking my brains for two hours picturing a car in my head. Nothing comes to my mind!
 
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The friction in the brakes needs to be sufficiently greater than the maximum static friction between the tires and pavement. The brakes need to be able to dissipate the heat energy produced from braking so they do not fade. The worst case scenario for heat dissipation for a street car would be going down long steep hill. For a race car, it's the repeated amount of maximum braking.
 
What rcgldr said.

The brakes need to be able to dissipate all the Kenetic Energy of the car in the form of heat.

Presumably you know the equation for the KE of the car so ask yourself this question:

Which would give the brakes more work to do..

a) doubling the mass of the car or
b) doubling the velocity of the car?
 

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