Calculating Deceleration Rate of a Car

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SUMMARY

The deceleration rate of a car can be calculated using the formula derived from Newton's laws of motion: v² = u² + 2as. In this case, with an initial velocity (u) of 60 mph (96 km/h), a final velocity (v) of 0 mph (0 km/h), and a distance (s) of 146 ft (44.5 m), the deceleration (a) can be determined. Additionally, to find the stopping distance from 60 km/h (37.5 mph), the same formula applies, allowing for the calculation of the required distance based on the new initial velocity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Basic knowledge of kinematics
  • Familiarity with unit conversions (mph to km/h, feet to meters)
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the application of Newton's second law in real-world scenarios
  • Learn about kinematic equations for uniformly accelerated motion
  • Explore the effects of friction on deceleration rates
  • Investigate how vehicle weight impacts stopping distances
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, automotive engineers, and anyone interested in understanding vehicle dynamics and safety measures related to stopping distances.

Timpo
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I apologize for my ignorance, I'm an extreme newbie in physics.
Is it possible to determine the deceleration rate of a car only with following information?

initial velocity = 60mph (96km/h)
final velocity = 0mph (0km/h)
distance = 146ft (44.5m)

if so, how many distance would it take to stop from 60km/h (37.5mph)?

Thank you
 
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v^2=u^2+2as

v=Final velocity
u=initial velocity
a=acceleration
s=displacement.
 
do a search for Newton's laws of motion. they are probably the most well known equations for scientists and engineers and worth remembering. there are a few other derivations than the one that rock freak has given you.
 
thanks a lot guys!
 

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