What Are 3 Driver-Operated Controls That Cause Acceleration in an Automobile?

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Acceleration in an automobile is defined as a change in velocity, which can be influenced by three driver-operated controls: the brake, accelerator, and steering wheel. These controls allow the driver to adjust both the speed and direction of the vehicle. The discussion emphasizes that understanding these controls is straightforward and does not involve complex concepts like axis of rotation or uniform circular motion. The key takeaway is that these three controls are essential for managing acceleration in a car. Overall, the focus remains on the fundamental mechanics of vehicle operation.
ErrorProxy
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1. The problem
Remember that acceleration is a change in velocity. There are 3 driver-operated controls in an automobile that will cause the automobile to accelerate.


2. The attempt at a solution
Is it axis of rotation, tangential speed, and uniform circular motion?
 
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ErrorProxy said:
1. The problem
Remember that acceleration is a change in velocity. There are 3 driver-operated controls in an automobile that will cause the automobile to accelerate.


2. The attempt at a solution
Is it axis of rotation, tangential speed, and uniform circular motion?

Accelleration is change in velocity.

Velocity is a vector, and hence has both direction and magnitude. Magnitude of velocity is another name for "speed".

So, what three controls allow you to change either direction or speed?

This is pretty easy, by the way, so don't look for any tricks in the question.
 
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Dang it. So it's just brake, accelerator, and steering wheel..
 


ErrorProxy said:
Dang it. So it's just brake, accelerator, and steering wheel..

yes. exactly
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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