How Much Longer Does It Take to Stop When Speeding in a School Zone?

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a driver exceeding the speed limit in a school zone and seeks to determine the additional distance required to stop compared to if the driver had adhered to the speed limit. The context is rooted in kinematics and the work-energy theorem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the work-energy theorem to calculate stopping distances at different speeds. Some participants question the necessity of showing an attempt before receiving help, while others suggest starting with the work-energy theorem.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing hints and prompting for further attempts. There is no explicit consensus, but guidance is being offered to refine the approach to the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants are reminded to show their work before receiving assistance, indicating a focus on the learning process. The original poster has provided specific values and calculations but expresses uncertainty about their approach.

TalibanNinja
Messages
15
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


A driver carelessly ignores the reduced speed limit of 40.0 km/h in a school zone and continues at 65 km/h. Assuming a good reaction time of 0.80 s, how many more metres will it take him to stop than if he had reduced his speed? Assume 2000kg car has a constant braking friction of 12000N. (Must use work-energy theorem)
va=11.11m/s
vb=18.05ms
Ff=12000N
m=2000kg
g=9.8m/s^2

Homework Equations



Ff=μFn
Work done to an object = change in kinetic energy
Wf=Ek
μmgd=1/2mv^2
d=v^2/2μg

The Attempt at a Solution




μ=Ff/Fn
μ=12000N/(2000kg*9.8m/s^2)
μ=0.61

da=(11.11m/s)^2/2*(0.61)(9.8m/s^2)
da=10.32m

db=(18.05m/s)^2/2*(0.61)(9.8m.s^2)
db=27.25m

Δd=db-da
Δd=27.25m - 10.32m
Δd=16.93

Therefore it takes the driver 16.93m longer to stop than if he slowed his speed.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
You must show us an attempt at a solution first before we are allowed to help you. First try to write an equation for distance if he had slowed down to 40km/h.
 
i've tried the question using the knowledge i have but I am not sure.
 
Start by stating the work-energy theorem.
 
Hint: Use \frac{1}{2}mv2=Fd
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
5K
Replies
3
Views
9K
Replies
3
Views
3K