Work-Energy Method: Solving Doubled Initial Speed of Car

AI Thread Summary
Doubling a car's initial speed results in a stopping distance that increases by a factor of four due to the work-energy principle, which states that the work done by friction equals the change in kinetic energy. The kinetic energy of the car is proportional to the square of its speed, meaning that if speed is doubled, kinetic energy increases by a factor of four. The stopping distance is directly related to the work done against friction, which remains constant regardless of speed. The discussion also touches on how tripling the initial speed would increase the stopping distance further, though the specific factor is not calculated. Understanding the relationship between speed, kinetic energy, and stopping distance is crucial for solving such problems.
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[SOLVED] Work-Energy Method

Homework Statement



A car is stopped by a constant friction force that is independent of the car's speed. By what factor is the stopping distance changed if the car's initial speed is doubled? (Solve using work-energy methods.)

Homework Equations



Wtotal = delta K

The Attempt at a Solution



From what the problem is stating, is that friction force, is separate from car's speed.
''if the car's initial speed is doubled?''
K1 = 1/2(m)(2v)^2

I know the answer is 4, but I don't comprehend, what is the car's initial speed is tripled, would it be 6?
 
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How does stopping distance relate to kinetic energy?
 
well if the velocity is higher, then it would be harder to stop at a shorter distance than a long one.
 
I'm looking for a precise answer. What factors affect stopping distance? Give an equation.
 
well

W = F*s

s being distance

and work total = k2-k1

so, k2-k1 = F*s
 
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