Coefficient of Friction between tires and racetrack

In summary, a race-car driver named Jeff Gordon can accelerate at 4.0m/s2 without spinning his tires, but any attempts to accelerate more rapidly result in "burning rubber." The coefficient of friction between his tires and the road can be found using the equation Ffriction = μkN, assuming that the force from the engine is applied only to the rear tires. When determining the friction force, it is important to consider the external forces acting on the car, which in this case would be the friction from the road on the back tires.
  • #1
pech0706
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Homework Statement


Jeff Gordon (a race-car driver) discovers that he can accelerate at 4.0m/s2 without spinning his tires, but if he tries to accelerate more rapidly he always "burns rubber."
Find the coefficient of friction between his tires and the road. Assume the force from the engine is applied only to the rear tires.


Homework Equations


Ffriction=[tex]\mu[/tex]kN
[tex]E[/tex]=V+Ffriction



The Attempt at a Solution


I don't even know where to begin on this
 
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  • #2
welcome to pf!

hi pech0706! welcome to pf! :smile:

(have a mu: µ :wink:)

only external forces can move the car

the only (horizontal) external force is the friction from the road on the back tyres * …

so how much is this friction force when a = 4.0 m/s ? :smile:

(call the mass of the car "m")

* EDIT: come to think of it, that's not quite true …

when the car is accelerating, there's a small backward friction force from the road on the front tyres, essentially caused by the inertia of the front tyres: but I think you're meant to ignore that! :wink:
 

What is the coefficient of friction between tires and racetrack?

The coefficient of friction between tires and racetrack is a measure of the amount of resistance or friction between the tires and the racetrack surface. It is a dimensionless quantity that represents the ratio of the force needed to overcome the friction between the two surfaces to the force pressing them together.

How is the coefficient of friction between tires and racetrack calculated?

The coefficient of friction between tires and racetrack can be calculated by dividing the maximum frictional force that can be generated between the two surfaces by the normal force, which is the force pressing the two surfaces together. This calculation is typically done through experiments and can vary based on factors such as tire type, track surface, and temperature.

What factors can affect the coefficient of friction between tires and racetrack?

There are several factors that can affect the coefficient of friction between tires and racetrack. These include the type and condition of the tires, the type and condition of the racetrack surface, the weight and speed of the vehicle, and environmental factors such as temperature and humidity.

Why is the coefficient of friction between tires and racetrack important in racing?

The coefficient of friction between tires and racetrack is important in racing because it directly affects a vehicle's ability to maintain traction and control on the track. A higher coefficient of friction can result in better grip and faster lap times, while a lower coefficient of friction can lead to loss of control and accidents.

Can the coefficient of friction between tires and racetrack be improved?

Yes, the coefficient of friction between tires and racetrack can be improved through various methods such as using different types of tires, maintaining the racetrack surface, and adjusting the weight and suspension of the vehicle. Additionally, techniques such as tire warming and tire pressure management can also help improve the coefficient of friction.

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