What is the force exerted by a seat belt in a head-on collision?

In summary, seat belts protect passengers during collisions by preventing them from being thrown forward and distributing the force of impact over a larger area of the body. They are most effective in frontal collisions but also provide protection in side and rear collisions. While they may cause minor injuries, the benefits of wearing a seat belt far outweigh any potential harm. To ensure maximum protection, it is important to wear the seat belt properly and regularly check for any damage. While there may be some exceptions for certain medical conditions or disabilities, wearing a seat belt is required by law for all passengers in a vehicle.
  • #1
rebeccc
22
0
In a head-on collision, a car stops in 0.18 from a speed of 22 . The driver has a mass of 75 , and is, fortunately, tightly strapped into his seat.

What force is applied to the driver by his seat belt during that fraction of a second?
 
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  • #2
Hi rebeccc,

What have you tried so far?
 
  • #3


During the head-on collision, the driver's seat belt exerts a force on the driver to prevent him from moving forward due to inertia. This force is equal to the product of the driver's mass and the acceleration he experiences during the collision, which can be calculated using the equation F=ma. Given the driver's mass of 75 kg and the change in velocity of 22 m/s over a time of 0.18 seconds, the force applied by the seat belt can be calculated as 1,650 Newtons. This is a significant force and highlights the importance of wearing a seat belt to prevent injury in a collision.
 

1. How do seat belts protect passengers during a collision?

Seat belts work by preventing passengers from being thrown forward in a collision. They distribute the force of impact over a larger area of the body, reducing the risk of injury or death.

2. What types of collisions are seat belts most effective in?

Seat belts are most effective in frontal collisions, but they also provide protection in side and rear collisions. They are designed to keep passengers in their seats and prevent ejection from the vehicle.

3. Can seat belts cause injuries in a collision?

While seat belts can cause minor bruises or soreness, they are designed to protect passengers from more serious injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, or death. The benefits of wearing a seat belt far outweigh any potential minor injuries.

4. How can I ensure my seat belt is properly protecting me in a collision?

To ensure your seat belt is providing maximum protection, make sure it is properly adjusted and worn snugly across your lap and shoulder. Also, regularly check for any tears or damage in the seat belt and have it repaired or replaced if needed.

5. Are there any exceptions to wearing a seat belt in a vehicle?

In most places, wearing a seat belt is required by law for all passengers in a vehicle. However, there may be some exceptions for certain medical conditions or disabilities. It is important to check your local laws and regulations regarding seat belt usage.

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