Improving MPG Calculation Using GPS Data

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the miles per gallon (MPG) of a car using GPS data to track position and analyze driving distance. The original poster attempts to reconcile discrepancies between calculated fuel usage based on GPS data and the amount recorded at the gas pump.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss various factors affecting fuel efficiency calculations, including the efficiency of the car's engine, the impact of elevation changes, and the need to account for drag and rolling resistance. Questions are raised about the assumptions made regarding energy content in fuel and the method of calculating power.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants providing insights into potential oversights in the original poster's calculations. There is a focus on refining the approach to measuring fuel efficiency, and several participants suggest considering additional factors that may influence the results.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the complexity of accurately measuring fuel efficiency and the challenges posed by varying fuel compositions and engine efficiencies. The original poster acknowledges limitations in their ability to measure certain variables directly.

  • #31
Any thoughts?
 
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  • #32
thinkcentre12 said:
If I was running at a constant speed would any of those 14 equations change? (The equations previous listed). I ran three more trips in traffic and that seemed to really help my percent error.
It won't change the equations, except that some simplifications may be possible. Mainly it may remove some of the effects which your equations are not allowing for (like braking, varying drag).
 

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