Problem iwth calculating the movement of my solar car

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the necessary force for a solar car to travel 20 meters in 4 seconds, utilizing a motor with specifications of 23,500 RPM, 350 gm-cm torque, and a gear ratio of 8:45. The user has successfully calculated that their car can achieve 140 meters in 11 seconds at 9 volts. The key to solving the problem lies in determining the required acceleration and subsequently the force using Newton's second law, as outlined in the provided physics forum link.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law (F=ma)
  • Basic knowledge of gear ratios and their impact on torque
  • Familiarity with motor specifications (RPM, torque, voltage)
  • Ability to perform calculations involving acceleration and force
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to calculate acceleration from distance and time using kinematic equations
  • Explore the effects of different gear ratios on torque and speed
  • Learn about the relationship between voltage, current, and motor performance
  • Investigate methods to reduce friction in small-scale vehicles
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for engineering students, hobbyists building solar-powered vehicles, and anyone interested in the physics of motion and mechanics.

greeklegend14
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Homework Statement


Well, i have built this solar car, and the objective is (in my class) is to see who can get there solar car the fastest in 20 metres (i.e. who can clear the 20 metres in the lowest amount of seconds). My motor specs are 23,500rpm 350gm-cm torque, 150mA all at 14.8 volts. My weight on my car is about 250gm. The gear ratio I have is 8:45, so therefore i have 1968.75 gm-cm of force pushing this car. I have bearings on every wheel, so there is hardly any friction (if that helps). Can anyone help me to calculate the force needed to actually move the car 20 metres in 4 seconds, and if I can enhance the with gear ratios?

Homework Equations


1 Newton= 1kg second squared (is this relavant?)

The Attempt at a Solution


I have tryed to search google to find any such help in formulae's etc. and my tech teacher doesn't now how to calculate this.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
Redbelly98 said:
From the distance and time requirements, you can calculate the required acceleration using one of the formulas here:

https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=905663&postcount=2

Once you have acceleration, you can get the force.

thx man
i worked out that my car will do 140m in 11 sec with 9v. man I am cheering.
 

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