Calculate force of friction on car as it rolls across

In summary: The missing information is that the car comes to a stop after traveling the 8.7 metres.The car stopped because it ran out of power from the mousetrap?The car stopped because it ran out of power from the mousetrap?yesyes
  • #1
SelenaT
12
0

Homework Statement


Calculate the force of friction on a toy car as it rolls across a flat floor.

Given:
mass = 0.293kg
time = 3.66 s
displacement = 8.7

Homework Equations



Fnet = mass x acceleration

displacement = [(velocity1 + velocity2)/2] time

velocity2 = velocity1 + acceleration(time)

The Attempt at a Solution


Step 1[/B]
displacement = [(velocity1 + velocity2)/2] time
v2 = (2d/time) - v1
= 2(8.7m)/3.66s - 0m/s
= 4.75m/s

Step 2
velocity2 = velocity1 + acceleration(time)
a = v2-v1 / time
= 4.75/3.66
= 1.29m/s^2

Step 3
F=ma
= 0.293kg x 1.29m/s^2
= 0.38N

so the force of friction on the car is 0.38N ?

I am unsure if this is right and if i have to use the Force of friction = μ x N equation
 
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  • #2
The problem statement is incomplete. Please copy the entire question word for word.

Your working implies you have more information than you've posted...
 
  • #3
billy_joule said:
The problem statement is incomplete. Please copy the entire question word for word.

Your working implies you have more information than you've posted...

Will remember to add background of the question.

"Calculate the force of friction on your car as it rolls across a smooth level surface."

Not sure why it says smooth level surface since there was friction between the car and the floor but...

This is a follow up question to an experiment we did. We had to make a mousetrap car so the car was powered only by the mousetrap. The mass of my car is 0.293kg and it traveled 8.7 m in 3.66 seconds across a flat floor.
 
  • #4
Ok. The missing information is that the car comes to a stop after traveling the 8.7 metres.

What you've done is correct.
 
  • #5
SelenaT said:
Will remember to add background of the question.

"Calculate the force of friction on your car as it rolls across a smooth level surface."

Not sure why it says smooth level surface since there was friction between the car and the floor but...

This is a follow up question to an experiment we did. We had to make a mousetrap car so the car was powered only by the mousetrap. The mass of my car is 0.293kg and it traveled 8.7 m in 3.66 seconds across a flat floor.
Are the distance and time measured from a point where the mousetrap has ceased to supply any power?
 
  • #6
haruspex said:
Are the distance and time measured from a point where the mousetrap has ceased to supply any power?
yes
 
  • #7
SelenaT said:
yes
Ok
 

FAQ: Calculate force of friction on car as it rolls across

1. What is friction and how does it affect a car's motion?

Friction is the force that opposes motion between two surfaces in contact. In the case of a car rolling across a surface, friction acts to slow down the car's motion and eventually bring it to a stop.

2. How do you calculate the force of friction on a car as it rolls across a surface?

The force of friction can be calculated using the formula F = μN, where F is the force of friction, μ is the coefficient of friction, and N is the normal force acting on the car. The coefficient of friction depends on the materials of the car's tires and the surface it is rolling on.

3. What factors can affect the force of friction on a car?

The force of friction can be affected by the weight of the car, the materials of the car's tires, the surface it is rolling on, and the speed at which the car is moving. Additionally, the presence of any lubricants or obstacles on the surface can also impact the force of friction.

4. How does the force of friction impact a car's fuel efficiency?

The force of friction can have a significant impact on a car's fuel efficiency. As friction acts to slow down the car's motion, it also increases the amount of fuel needed to maintain the car's speed. This is why it is important to have well-maintained tires and choose efficient driving routes to minimize the force of friction on a car.

5. Is there a way to reduce the force of friction on a car?

There are a few ways to reduce the force of friction on a car, such as using low-friction materials for the tires or using lubricants on the surface. Additionally, keeping the car's tires properly inflated and maintaining a consistent speed while driving can also help reduce the force of friction and improve fuel efficiency.

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