What is the Stopping Distance of a Car After Reaction Time?

In summary, the conversation discusses a scenario where a car is traveling at 100 km/h and has to stop suddenly due to an elk standing on the road. With a reaction time of 1.5 seconds and a steady deceleration of 7.5 m/s2, the car stops in 4 seconds. The distance between the car and the elk after the car has stopped is calculated to be approximately 27 meters. The equations used to solve for this distance are V=a*t+V0 and V2-V02 = 2*a*x.
  • #1
chawki
506
0

Homework Statement


The car velocity is 100 km/h. Suddenly, the driver sees a elk 120 m from the car standing on
the road. The driver’s reaction time is 1,5 s, after which time the driver starts braking. The
braking is assumed steady and the deceleration is 7,5 m/s2. The car stops in 4 s.

Homework Equations


Calculate the distance between the standing elk and the car after the car has stopped. Give the answer in 1m precision.

The Attempt at a Solution


At his reaction time, he traveled 27.77*1.5 = 41.655 m
so the distance left for braking is 120-41.655 = 78.345m

V = a*t +V0
t = (V-V0)/a
t = (0-27.77)/-7.5
t = 3.702 s and that's the time for coming to a stop.

V2-V02 = 2*a*x
x=51.41m
so he stopped after 51.41m of braking, and that's 78.345-51.41 = 26.935 from the elk
In 1m precision it would be 27m.
 
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  • #2
so what is your question?
 
  • #3
It is fine, but why have you calculated the time?

ehild
 
  • #4
i was going to use the equation x=1/2 *a*t2+V0*t+x0
 
  • #5
you have got your answer anyways.
 

1. How does reaction time affect braking distance?

Reaction time is the time it takes for a person to perceive a potential hazard and react to it by applying the brakes. The longer the reaction time, the longer the distance traveled before the brakes are applied, resulting in a longer braking distance.

2. What factors besides reaction time affect braking distance?

Aside from reaction time, other factors that can affect braking distance include the speed of the vehicle, the condition of the brakes and tires, the road surface, and the weight of the vehicle. All of these factors can impact the ability of the vehicle to come to a stop in a timely manner.

3. How can one improve their reaction time while driving?

One way to improve reaction time while driving is to always stay alert and focused on the road ahead. Eliminating distractions, such as cell phones, can also help. Regularly practicing emergency braking exercises can also help improve reaction time in case of a sudden hazard.

4. How does vehicle weight affect braking after reaction time?

The heavier the vehicle, the longer it takes to come to a complete stop after the brakes are applied. This is because heavier vehicles have more momentum, which requires more force to stop. Therefore, a heavier vehicle will have a longer braking distance compared to a lighter vehicle, even with the same reaction time.

5. Can braking distance be calculated after factoring in reaction time?

Yes, braking distance can be calculated by taking into account the vehicle's speed, reaction time, and other factors such as road conditions and vehicle weight. There are also online calculators and formulas that can be used to estimate braking distance based on these variables.

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