Missing info from this question? (Max. acceleration possible for a vehicle)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the maximum acceleration of a 2000 kg car, given that two-thirds of its weight rests on the drive wheels and it is on a concrete surface. Participants are questioning the adequacy of the information provided, particularly regarding the coefficient of friction.

Discussion Character

  • Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants express concern about the lack of information, specifically the coefficient of friction (μ), which is necessary for calculating maximum acceleration. Others suggest that different types of vehicles and tire compounds can significantly affect acceleration on the same surface, indicating a need for more context.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the implications of missing information. Some guidance has been offered regarding looking up the coefficient of friction, but there is no consensus on whether the provided data is sufficient for a complete analysis.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the question may be part of a mastering physics assignment, which could impose specific constraints on the information provided. The variability of coefficients of friction based on different conditions is also under consideration.

sp3sp2sp
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Homework Statement


Two-thirds of the weight of a 2000 kg car rests on the drive wheels. What is the maximum acceleration of this car on a concrete surface?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Shouldnt I have been provided mu, the coeeficient for friction? Its a mastering physics question. Thanks
 
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You can look up the value of ##\mu## in a table in the textbook.
 
sp3sp2sp said:

Homework Statement


Two-thirds of the weight of a 2000 kg car rests on the drive wheels. What is the maximum acceleration of this car on a concrete surface?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Shouldnt I have been provided mu, the coeeficient for friction? Its a mastering physics question. Thanks
IMO, you need more information. After all, top-fuel dragsters accelerate quicker than Pro Stock dragsters on the same surface (why?). And different rubber compounds have way different coefficients of friction on the same surface (asphalt or concrete, whatever).
 
Maybe if you just use variable names for the max engine power and for the max coefficient of friction, can you get full credit for the question?
 

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