Which forces does work as a car brakes?

In summary, the conversation discusses the forces that do work, specifically the normal and frictional forces. It is noted that the normal force does not do work because it is perpendicular to motion, but the frictional force does do work as it is opposing motion. There is a discussion about the difference between static and kinetic friction, with the conclusion being that kinetic friction does work when there is relative motion between the wheels and the ground.
  • #1
okgo
61
0

Homework Statement


Which forces does work?
http://www.screencast.com/users/ntrinh3/folders/Jing/media/3f09a85d-142c-4f73-a8a8-1ad506d5c2b8


Homework Equations


W=fdcos(theta)


The Attempt at a Solution


I always thought normal and friction does no work because it is perpendicular to motion. What gives?
 
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  • #2
yes the normal force does no work

But the frictional force is opposing motion (anti-parallel to the motion), so it must do work to slow the mass down.
 
  • #3
When a car brakes, isn't it in motion and using kinetic friction to stop, and not static friction?
Static friction causes rolling motion in wheels, but there is no rolling motion so it skids. So shouldn't kinetic friction do work and not static? I'm a bit confused on the two concept.
 
  • #4
okgo said:
When a car brakes, isn't it in motion and using kinetic friction to stop, and not static friction?
Static friction causes rolling motion in wheels, but there is no rolling motion so it skids. So shouldn't kinetic friction do work and not static? I'm a bit confused on the two concept.

Had the car been stationary, static friction would be acting, but the car in motion, so kinetic friction is doing work. There is relative motion between the wheels and the ground.
 

1. What are the main forces involved in a car's braking system?

The main forces involved in a car's braking system are friction, mechanical force, and hydraulic force. Friction is the force that opposes the motion of the car's tires on the road and helps to slow the car down. Mechanical force is applied when the driver presses down on the brake pedal, which activates the hydraulic system. Hydraulic force is the pressure that is created by the brake fluid in the system, pushing against the brake pads to slow down the car.

2. How does the friction force work in a car's braking system?

The friction force in a car's braking system is created by the contact between the brake pads and the rotors. When the driver presses down on the brake pedal, the brake pads are pushed against the rotors, creating friction. This friction converts the kinetic energy of the car into heat energy, which dissipates into the air and causes the car to slow down.

3. What is the role of mechanical force in a car's braking system?

Mechanical force is applied when the driver presses down on the brake pedal. This force is transmitted through the brake pedal to the brake master cylinder, which then activates the hydraulic system. The amount of force applied by the driver determines the amount of pressure in the hydraulic system, which in turn affects the amount of braking force applied to the wheels.

4. How does the hydraulic force contribute to a car's braking?

Hydraulic force is the pressure created by the brake fluid in the system. When the brake pedal is pressed, the brake master cylinder compresses the brake fluid, creating pressure. This pressure is then transmitted to the brake calipers, which push the brake pads against the rotors, creating friction and slowing down the car. The more pressure that is created, the more force is applied to the brake pads, resulting in stronger braking power.

5. What happens if there is a loss of hydraulic pressure in a car's braking system?

If there is a loss of hydraulic pressure in a car's braking system, the brakes will not be able to function properly. This can happen due to a leak in the brake system or a malfunction in the brake master cylinder. Without enough hydraulic pressure, the brake pads will not be able to create enough friction to slow down the car. This can be dangerous and should be immediately addressed by a professional mechanic.

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