How Does Friction Both Propel and Slow Down a Car?

Thread starter screaminseamin1
Start date Sep 23, 2007
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Cars Friction

AI Thread Summary

Friction plays a crucial role in both propelling and slowing down a car. When a car accelerates, the engine generates power that is transferred to the wheels, creating friction between the tires and the road, which propels the vehicle forward. On slippery surfaces, such as ice, insufficient friction prevents effective acceleration, leading to loss of control. To slow down a car, brakes are applied, increasing friction between the brake pads and the wheels, which reduces speed. Understanding the dual role of friction is essential for safe driving and vehicle performance.

Sep 23, 2007

screaminseamin1

Homework Statement

Describe how friction propels a car forward, then explain how friction slows a cars forward motion

anyone have any idea?

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Sep 23, 2007

mgb_phys

Science Advisor

Homework Helper

How does the force get from the engine to the road?
What would happen if you tried to accelarate away on perfectly slippery ice?

What do you use to slow a car down?

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