Maximum acceleration of 1500 kg car on concrete surface?

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SUMMARY

The maximum acceleration of a 1500 kg car on a concrete surface, where two-thirds of its weight rests on the drive wheels, is calculated to be 6.53 m/s². This value is derived using the formula F = ma, with a static friction coefficient (μs) of 1. The discussion confirms that the acceleration can be simplified to (2g/3) under the assumption that the mass of the wheels is negligible, allowing for the frictional force on the non-drive wheels to be ignored.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law (F = ma)
  • Knowledge of static friction coefficients
  • Basic physics concepts related to weight distribution
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the effects of weight distribution on vehicle dynamics
  • Learn about the role of friction in vehicle acceleration
  • Explore advanced kinematic equations for varying surfaces
  • Investigate the impact of wheel mass on acceleration calculations
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Physics students, automotive engineers, and anyone interested in vehicle performance and dynamics will benefit from this discussion.

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Homework Statement


Two-thirds of the weight of a 1500 kg car rests on the drive wheels. What is the maximum acceleration of this car on a concrete surface?

μs = 1

Homework Equations



F = ma[/B]

The Attempt at a Solution



The answer I got is 6.53 m/s^2 , but I want to make sure the answer is correct.[/B]
 
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Yes, your answer (2g/3) is correct.

In reality, there will also be a backwards frictional force on the other (non-drive) wheels to get them rotating, but if the mass of the wheels are negligible then this can be ignored.
 

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