Calculating Average Retarding Force on Car

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SUMMARY

The average retarding force acting on a car that performs 6.48E+4 J of work while traveling 2.92 km at constant speed is calculated to be 22.2 N. The formula used for this calculation is F = w/d, where F is the force, w is the work done, and d is the distance traveled. The conversion of units is crucial, as 6.48E+4 J translates to 64800 J and 2.92 km converts to 2920 m. Proper attention to unit conversions is essential for accurate calculations in physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically work and force.
  • Familiarity with the formula F = w/d for calculating force.
  • Knowledge of unit conversions, particularly between joules and newtons.
  • Ability to interpret scientific notation (e.g., 6.48E+4).
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of work and energy in physics.
  • Learn more about unit conversions in physics, especially between different measurement systems.
  • Explore real-world applications of force calculations in automotive engineering.
  • Investigate the effects of friction and other retarding forces on vehicle motion.
USEFUL FOR

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

lim
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Homework Statement



A car does 6.48E+4 J of work in traveling 2.92 km at constant speed. What was the average retarding force (from all sources) acting on the car?
22.2 N

Homework Equations




F= w/d

The Attempt at a Solution



F= w/d

6.48/ 2.92= 2.22 N ?
 
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lim said:

Homework Statement



A car does 6.48E+4 J of work in traveling 2.92 km at constant speed. What was the average retarding force (from all sources) acting on the car?
22.2 N

Homework Equations



F= w/d

The Attempt at a Solution



F= w/d

6.48/ 2.92= 2.22 N ?
Please pay attention to the units and exponent or powers of 10.

6.48E+4 J = 64800 J

2.92 km = 2920 m

1 J = 1 N-m or 1 N = 1 J/m = 1 kg-m/s2
 
oooh, I had a feeling it had something to do with unit conversions, but the E threw me off. I guess I'm used to seeing 10^x. Thanks for pointing it out Astronuc.
 

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