Friction Force & Direction for 925 kg Car at -12.2m/s2 Acceleration

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the frictional force acting on a 925 kg car experiencing an acceleration of -12.2 m/s². The normal force (Fn) is established at 9074.25 N. Participants emphasize the importance of using a free-body diagram and the equation F_f = u * F_n to determine the frictional force, where u represents the coefficient of friction. The primary focus is on deriving the frictional force and its direction without unnecessary complications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law (F=ma)
  • Knowledge of free-body diagrams
  • Familiarity with the concept of normal force (Fn)
  • Basic principles of friction, including the coefficient of friction (u)
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the coefficient of friction (u) using the equation F_f = u * F_n
  • Explore the implications of different coefficients of friction on braking performance
  • Study the effects of mass on frictional force in various scenarios
  • Learn about advanced dynamics involving multiple forces acting on an object
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, automotive engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of braking systems and frictional forces in vehicles.

drinkingstraw
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The average rate of acceleration for a breaking car was -12.2m/s2. If the car had a mass of 925 kg, find the frictional force and direction.

a = -12.2m/s2
m = 925 kg
Fn = 9074.25 N

This is what I've figured out. I don't know how to find the coefficient of friction. If I get the coefficient I think I can multiply it by the normal force to get the frictional force.
 
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You're complicating the problem unnecessarily.

The question asks only for the frictional force and direction. Try drawing a free-body diagram for the car and then write down the F=ma equations.
 
F_f = u*F_n

F_n = mgF_f = u *mg

find u
 
The problem only asks for F_f :smile:
The free body diagram is the way to go. Fn and Fg cancel out. What other force or forces provide the acceleration?
 

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