Solving Friction Problem: Distance to Stop a Car

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving a car coming to a stop due to friction. The original poster presents the scenario with initial velocity and the coefficient of friction, seeking to determine the stopping distance.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between frictional force and acceleration, with some attempting to derive acceleration from force balance equations. Questions arise regarding the correctness of their approaches and the application of formulas.

Discussion Status

Participants have engaged in a productive exchange, with some confirming the derived expressions for acceleration. There is a collaborative atmosphere as they clarify and validate each other's reasoning without reaching a final conclusion.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on the definitions and relationships between force, mass, and acceleration, with participants questioning their assumptions and the implications of their calculations. The discussion reflects a focus on understanding the underlying physics rather than simply solving for a numerical answer.

ksle82
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A car traveling at an initial velocity v_{0} applies its brakes to come to a stop. The coeffictien of friction is \mu. What distance is required to stop?

I know that you can solve for x using this equation:
v^2=v_{0}^2+2ax

-but i don't know how to solve for acceleration a. any help?
 
Last edited:
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Can you calculate the frictional force? If so, can you calculate the acceleration, by, say, using the definition of force? Try it out, assigning the mass to be m0, and see what you get
 
Im trying to do a force balace to find a but I am not sure this is right.

-\mum_{0}g=m_{0}a
solving for for a, i get a=\mug
 
Last edited:
excuse my bad Latex

but it should be:

-u*Mo*g=Mo*a, solving for a,

a=-u*g
 
yes that's right!
 
thanx 'preciate the help
 

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