The discussion clarifies that while the basic formula for friction force states it is independent of surface area, practical applications in racing demonstrate otherwise. Wider tires on race cars provide a larger contact patch, which supports the vehicle's load and enhances grip due to a variable coefficient of friction that increases with lower loads. Additionally, wider tires allow for softer rubber compounds, reducing wear rates and overheating, which are critical for performance in racing environments.
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Tyre/road friction is extremely complex, there are entire books on just this subject. Your formula is correct for a simple model, however what you may not realize is that the coefficient of friction will not usually be constant, even for the same materials at the same temperature. The coefficient of friction depends on the normal load, usually it is higher for lower loads. So when considering the entire vehicle it is beneficial to have a larger contact area (and a lower pressure between the tyre and road) to increase the coefficient of friction.engineer888 said:As far as I know, friction force is equal to the product of the normal force and coefficient of friction, hence is independent of surface area.
So why is it that race cars have wider tyres than conventional vehicles?