What is the Most Effective Method for Minimum Stopping Distance in a Car?

In summary, to stop a car in the shortest distance on a horizontal road, one should apply the brakes very hard so that the wheels stop rotating. There is no mention of the force or speed at which the car stops, but it is important to prevent the wheels from slipping. Pumping the brakes or shutting off the engine without applying the brakes are not recommended methods.
  • #1
ubergewehr273
142
5

Homework Statement


In order to stop a car in shortest distance on a horizontal road, one should,
(a) Apply brakes very hard so that the wheels stop rotating
(b) Apply the brakes hard enough to just prevent slipping
(c) Pump the brakes (press and release)
(d) Shut the engine off and not apply brakes

Homework Equations


NIL

The Attempt at a Solution


I think the solution might be (a) because after the wheels stop rotating altogether, friction would stop the car entirely.
But I might as well be wrong.
 
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  • #2
Friction stops the car in all setups. But how fast does it stop? What is the force that stops it?
 
  • #3
Well, there is no mention of it in the question...
 
  • #4
Is this a question from the driving test?
 
  • #5
Ashes Panigrahi said:
Well, there is no mention of it in the question...
Those are questions for you to answer.
 

1. What is minimum stopping distance?

Minimum stopping distance is the shortest distance that an object can come to a complete stop without any external forces acting upon it.

2. How is minimum stopping distance calculated?

Minimum stopping distance is calculated by taking into account the initial velocity of the object, the coefficient of friction between the object and the surface it is traveling on, and the acceleration due to gravity.

3. What factors affect minimum stopping distance?

The factors that affect minimum stopping distance include the initial velocity of the object, the coefficient of friction between the object and the surface it is traveling on, and the acceleration due to gravity. Other factors may include the surface conditions, the type of object, and any external forces acting on the object.

4. How does weight affect minimum stopping distance?

Weight can affect minimum stopping distance because it affects the force of friction between the object and the surface it is traveling on. A heavier object will have a greater force of friction, resulting in a shorter stopping distance.

5. Why is minimum stopping distance important to consider?

Minimum stopping distance is important to consider because it can help determine the amount of time and distance needed for an object to come to a complete stop. This information is crucial for ensuring safety and preventing accidents, especially in the transportation industry.

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