Intro Physics Question: Avoiding Collision on NY State Thruway at 106.8 km/hr

AI Thread Summary
To avoid a collision on the New York State Thruway while traveling at 106.8 km/hr, it's crucial to calculate the safe distance behind the car in front when it brakes. Given a 1-second reaction time before applying brakes, the stopping distance must account for both the initial speed and the maximum deceleration. Using standard physics equations, one can determine the necessary distance to maintain safety. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding acceleration and deceleration in driving scenarios. Proper calculations can prevent accidents in high-speed traffic situations.
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You are driving along the New York State Thruway in
a line of cars all traveling at a constant speed of 106.8 km/hr.
The car in front of you applies its brakes for maximum accelera-
tion. You then apply your brakes to achieve the same maximum
acceleration after only a 1 s delay due to reaction time. What
distance behind the car in front of you must you be to avoid a
collision?
 
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When I want to make MY car accelerate, I hit the gas. I find it very weird that you hit the brakes to accelerate.
 
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