Physic:Calculating mass of one rail car?

  • Thread starter Thread starter okgo
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Car Mass
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the mass of a rail car using Newton's second law of motion. A participant questions the calculation of mass as 1000 kg based on the force of 10,000 N divided by 10 cars, leading to confusion regarding the application of force on multiple cars. The correct interpretation emphasizes that the force exerted on the 11th car is responsible for moving all 10 cars, not just one. This highlights the importance of understanding the distribution of force in a system of multiple objects.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law of motion
  • Basic knowledge of force and mass calculations
  • Familiarity with the concept of systems of objects in motion
  • Ability to interpret physics problems and equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Newton's second law of motion in detail
  • Learn about force distribution in multi-object systems
  • Explore practical applications of force calculations in physics
  • Review practice problems related to mass and force in rail systems
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of force and mass in multi-object systems.

okgo
Messages
61
Reaction score
0
Physic:Calculating mass of one rail car?
http://www.screencast.com/users/trinhn812/folders/Jing/media/0852e68e-acef-49b1-a54d-39289386b978

I'm confused. Why isn't it 10000N/10car=1000N*1m/s^2=1000kg

Isn't the force The force exerted on the 11th car is moving 10 cars, not just one.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
okgo said:
Physic:Calculating mass of one rail car?
http://www.screencast.com/users/trinhn812/folders/Jing/media/0852e68e-acef-49b1-a54d-39289386b978

I'm confused. Why isn't it 10000N/10car=1000N*1m/s^2=1000kg
this equation is very confusing
Isn't the force The force exerted on the 11th car is moving 10 cars, not just one.
yes, who checked off 'c'?
 
It was a practice exam online with the answer key. I guess I will tell the professor