Stopping a car before collision

In summary, the conversation discusses the different options a driver has to avoid hitting a wall while driving a car with a velocity of v and a mass of M. The coefficient of static and kinetic friction is given as μ and the acceleration due to gravity as g. The driver can either apply the brakes, turn the car or apply brakes while turning, with the equations of motion being used to calculate the distance traveled in each scenario. The conversation also mentions the possibility of applying the maximum force at a fixed angle to avoid hitting the wall, with the result being dependent on the remaining kinetic energy and the angle at which the force is applied.
  • #1
hav0c
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Homework Statement



A person driving a car suddenly sees a wall .At that instant velocity of the car is v. Coefficient of static and kinetic friction is μ. The mass of the car is M. To avoid the driver should ...(acc. due to gravity=g)
a)apply breaks
b)turn (the car shouldn't slip while turning)
c)apply breaks while turning (the car won't topple)

Homework Equations


v=rω
f=ma
v=d(s)/d(t)
... other equations of motion
(ignore actual scenario of pumping the brakes)

The Attempt at a Solution


In case the driver applies the brakes the distance traveled is simply (v2)/(2μg).
In case the driver turns the radius of the turn will be (v2)/(μg))
How will i work out the case of applying breaks and turning ?
 
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  • #2
Keeping maximum Force magnitude applied at some (fixed) angle from -v ...
you know the result for 0° is half the result for 90°.
Suppose you try it at 45° (then a∙r=-v∙v makes r become a function of remaining KE ... too bad).
The Force component pointing away from the wall is 71%, weaker than the simple braking case (100%),
so the Work done by that component while traveling to the wall must be less, at any other angle.
This means that the forward component of velocity is changed less, if F applied at any non-180 angle.
 

1. How does a car's brakes work to stop it before a collision?

The brakes on a car work by converting the kinetic energy of the moving car into thermal energy through friction. This is achieved by applying pressure to the brake pads, which then press against the brake rotors, slowing down the car and ultimately bringing it to a stop.

2. What factors affect a car's stopping distance?

The stopping distance of a car is affected by several factors including the speed of the car, the condition of the brakes, the road surface, and the weight of the car. Other factors such as weather conditions and reaction time of the driver can also play a role.

3. How can I reduce the chances of a collision while driving?

To reduce the chances of a collision while driving, it is important to follow traffic laws and regulations, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. It is also important to regularly maintain your car's brakes and tires to ensure they are in good working condition.

4. Is it possible to stop a car before a collision if it's traveling at a high speed?

Yes, it is possible to stop a car before a collision even if it is traveling at a high speed. However, the stopping distance will be longer and require more force from the brakes. This is why it is important to maintain a safe speed while driving and to always be prepared for unexpected situations on the road.

5. Are there any new technologies that can help prevent collisions while driving?

Yes, there are several new technologies that can help prevent collisions while driving. Some examples include automatic emergency braking systems, lane departure warning systems, and blind spot detection systems. These technologies use sensors and cameras to detect potential hazards and can help alert the driver or even automatically apply the brakes to avoid a collision.

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