Stopping Distance of a Locomotive with Failed Engine and Brakes

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the stopping distance of a locomotive with a failed engine and brakes, specifically a 49,000 kg locomotive traveling at 11 m/s and a lighter 35,000 kg locomotive under similar conditions. Key equations include the force of friction (Fr = µr x n), Newton's second law (F = ma), and net force calculations (Max = F1 - F2). Participants emphasize the necessity of knowing the coefficients of friction to accurately determine deceleration and stopping distance, indicating that mass and weight alone are insufficient for solving the problem.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with the concept of friction and coefficients of friction
  • Basic knowledge of force diagrams and free body diagrams
  • Ability to perform calculations involving mass, weight, and acceleration
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the coefficients of friction for different materials relevant to locomotive wheels and tracks
  • Learn how to apply kinematic equations to solve for stopping distances
  • Explore advanced topics in dynamics, specifically relating to forces acting on moving objects
  • Study real-world applications of stopping distance calculations in transportation engineering
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, engineers involved in transportation design, and professionals interested in locomotive safety and performance analysis.

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Homework Statement



a. A 49,000 kg locomotive is traveling at 11 m/s when its engine and brakes both fail. How far will the locomotive roll before it comes to a stop?
_____m

b. Determine the stopping distance if the locomotive had the same initial velocity but was "low on diesel" so its mass was only 35,000 kg.
______m

Homework Equations



Fr = µr x n
F = ma
Max = F1 - F2
May = F1 - F2


The Attempt at a Solution



To start off I drew a force diagram which showed thre forces; normal force going up, weight going down, and friction going in the opposite direction of the car. I found weight by multiplying the mass by 9.8, which ended up being 408200. I know that this must also be the amount for the normal force. But, now I'm at a standstill. I don't think the coefficients have anything to do with the problem but I'm starting to second guess myself. Am I able to use the mass and weight to figure out the decceleration of the car so that I will be able to use the velocity to find the distance? Thank you in advance!
 
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It looks to me like you need the coefficients of friction.
 
Mattowander said:
It looks to me like you need the coefficients of friction.

That seems logical, but there is no way to get them with just the mass and velocity. Velocity seems pretty pointless, especially at this stage in the problem, and all that mass can give us is weight, but using 9.8 as the acceleration.

How else can I approach the problem?
 

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