Physics: Why Water in Car Acceleration is Perpendicular

  • Thread starter drabdallh
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In summary, the position of the water's surface inside a car will appear to be perpendicular to the net force of gravity and fictitious force, but this is only due to the frame of reference. The actual acting force is the normal force, which is related to the normal acceleration of the water.
  • #1
drabdallh
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if water in a container in a car and the car accelerates why the surface of the water is perpendicular to the net force of gravity and fictitious force not to the net of normal and gravitational force?
 
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  • #2
It's the same net force on the water, the only difference is the frame of reference, such as inside the car (fictitious force, no apparent normal acceleration), versus the ground outside the car (force related to normal acceleration of water).
 
  • #3
you don't get what i mean
imagine the surface of the water
it will be perpendicular to net force of gravity and fictitious force
while the normal force is the actual acting force
 

1. Why does water in a car acceleration move in a perpendicular direction?

The movement of water in a car acceleration is due to the principle of inertia. When the car accelerates, the water inside the container wants to maintain its initial state of rest, but the car is moving forward. This creates a relative motion between the car and the water, causing the water to move in a perpendicular direction.

2. Does the speed of the car affect the direction of water in acceleration?

Yes, the speed of the car does affect the direction of water in acceleration. The faster the car accelerates, the greater the force acting on the water, causing it to move in a more perpendicular direction.

3. Is the direction of water in acceleration affected by the shape of the container?

Yes, the shape of the container can affect the direction of water in acceleration. A circular or cylindrical container will have a more uniform distribution of force, causing the water to move in a more perpendicular direction. A square or rectangular container may have uneven distribution of force, causing the water to move in a more diagonal direction.

4. Can other liquids behave in the same way as water in car acceleration?

Yes, other liquids can behave in the same way as water in car acceleration. Any liquid inside a container will experience the same principle of inertia when the container is accelerated. However, the speed and direction of the liquid's movement may vary depending on the viscosity and density of the liquid.

5. How does the direction of water in car acceleration impact the driving experience?

The direction of water in car acceleration does not significantly impact the driving experience. However, excessive movement of water inside the car may cause discomfort or distractions for the driver. Additionally, if the water spills out of the container, it can create a slippery surface and potentially affect the car's handling.

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