[Physics Video ISU Help] Car Crashes.

[Redtrack]

Homework Statement

Ive been assigned to create a video about Race Car Crashes, in relation to Physics.

Homework Equations

So far I've talked about :
- Newton's Three Law
- Safety Precautions (HeadRest, Seatbelt, Airbag)
- Momentum and Impulse
- Elastic and Inelastic Collisions

What else can I talk about in my video, thanks!

 

[PeterO]

Homework Statement

Ive been assigned to create a video about Race Car Crashes, in relation to Physics.

Homework Equations

So far I've talked about :
- Newton's Three Law
- Safety Precautions (HeadRest, Seatbelt, Airbag)
- Momentum and Impulse
- Elastic and Inelastic Collisions

What else can I talk about in my video, thanks!

Not too sure how many race Cars have airbags!

Matters to include would be Helmets, HANS device [Head and neck support] also known as Head Restraint.
Hopefully you haven't included too much about head on collisions, since race cars all travel in the same direction. Not too many elastic collisions either!

Also why Racing seat belts are so wide - usually 3" where as road belts [and cheaper race belts] are only 2" wide.

 

[Redtrack]

Thanks. Do you have any good resources I could use? Videos/Sites?

 

[PeterO]

Thanks. Do you have any good resources I could use? Videos/Sites?

No. I just watch motorsport on TV and take part in low level motorsport.

If you google, you may be able to find reference to the examples when driver have survived much much more than 10g acceleration [deceleration] in crashes.

For the last 10-20 years, many crash barriers are covered with layers of old car tyres. Obviously for a reason.

Try the FIA site, or Indy car, nascar, WRC, V8 Super Car, Formula1, ... depends what country you are from.

 

[asteriatic]

I am glad to see you incorporating physics into a real-world scenario like race car crashes. Here are some additional concepts you could consider including in your video:

1. Kinetic Energy: Race car crashes involve a significant amount of kinetic energy, which is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. You could explain how this energy is transferred during a crash and how it can impact the severity of the crash.

2. Friction and Traction: The friction between the tires and the road surface plays a crucial role in controlling the car's motion. You could discuss how different types of tires and road conditions can affect the car's traction and ultimately its ability to stay on the track and avoid crashes.

3. Center of Mass: The center of mass is the point at which an object's mass is evenly distributed. In a race car, the location of the driver's center of mass can affect the car's stability and handling, which can impact the likelihood of a crash.

4. Drag and Downforce: Race cars are designed to have minimal drag and maximum downforce, which helps them maintain stability and control at high speeds. You could explain how these aerodynamic forces work and how they can affect a car's performance and potential for crashes.

5. Energy Dissipation: When a car crashes, the energy from its motion needs to be dissipated to reduce the impact on the driver. You could discuss different ways that energy can be dissipated, such as crumple zones, to minimize the force experienced by the driver.

I hope these suggestions help you expand on your video and showcase the fascinating physics behind race car crashes. Good luck!