Coefficient of Friction needed to move a car

AI Thread Summary
To determine the minimum coefficient of static friction needed to accelerate a car at 12 m/s² without tire spin, Newton's second law (F = ma) is essential. The static friction force (Fs) is equal to the coefficient of static friction (µs) multiplied by the normal force (N). Although the problem initially seems to lack sufficient information, applying Newton's second law allows for the calculation of the necessary friction coefficient. The discussion emphasizes that with the right approach, the problem can be simplified and solved effectively. Understanding the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration is key to finding the solution.
seaway115
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Hi, I am new here and I need help with a problem.

Homework Statement



Hopping into your Porsche, you floor it and accelerate at 12 m/s/s without spinning the tires. Determine the minimum coefficient of static friction between the tires and the road needed to make this possible.

Homework Equations



Fs = µsN

The Attempt at a Solution



This is where I am stuck. The problem only gives me acceleration so I am unable to use the above equation to solve it. 12m = N -Fs?
 
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Welcome to PF!

seaway115 said:
Hopping into your Porsche, you floor it and accelerate at 12 m/s/s without spinning the tires. Determine the minimum coefficient of static friction between the tires and the road needed to make this possible.
…
Fs = µsN
…
This is where I am stuck. The problem only gives me acceleration so I am unable to use the above equation to solve it. 12m = N -Fs?

Hi seaway115! Welcome to PF! :smile:

Use good ol' Newton's second law … F = ma. :wink:
 
At first glance, you might think that you do not have enough information. But if you do as tiny-tim said, you'll see soon enough how nice and easy this problem really is.
 

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