Average Net Force on a Car 0-60mph: Weight Comparison

In summary, average net force is the sum total of all forces acting on an object, taking into account both magnitude and direction. To calculate average net force for a car going 0-60mph, you would need to know the mass of the car, the acceleration of the car, and the time it takes for the car to reach 60mph. The weight of a car plays a significant role in determining its average net force, as a heavier car will require a greater net force to accelerate to 60mph compared to a lighter car. Some factors that can affect the average net force on a car going 0-60mph include the car's weight, engine power, air resistance, road conditions, and tire traction. Understanding average
  • #1
shiney612
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Homework Statement


What is the average net force on a car during a zero to 60mph (0 to 30m/s) acceleration? Compare this force to the weight of the car.


Homework Equations





I just don't know what equations to do and need help to figure out what to do.
 
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  • #2
Hi shiney612, welcome to PF.

Can you find the acceleration of the car? What equation(s) would you use for that?

Once you have the acceleration, can you find the force? What equation does that involve?
 
  • #3


The average net force on a car during a zero to 60mph acceleration can be calculated using Newton's second law of motion, which states that force equals mass times acceleration (F=ma). In this case, the acceleration is 30m/s (60mph) and the mass of the car can be determined by using its weight and the acceleration due to gravity (g=9.8m/s^2). So, the equation becomes F=m(30)/9.8.

To compare this force to the weight of the car, we need to first calculate the weight of the car using the formula W=mg, where m is the mass of the car and g is the acceleration due to gravity. Then, we can divide the net force by the weight to determine the ratio between the two. This ratio will give us an idea of how much the car is being pushed or pulled during the acceleration.

It is important to note that this calculation only takes into account the force required to accelerate the car from 0 to 60mph. Other factors such as air resistance, friction, and rolling resistance may also contribute to the overall net force on the car during this acceleration.

In conclusion, the average net force on a car during a zero to 60mph acceleration can be calculated using Newton's second law of motion and compared to the weight of the car. However, this calculation may not represent the total net force acting on the car during the acceleration.
 

FAQ: Average Net Force on a Car 0-60mph: Weight Comparison

What is the definition of average net force?

Average net force is the sum total of all forces acting on an object, taking into account both magnitude and direction.

How is average net force calculated for a car going 0-60mph?

To calculate average net force for a car going 0-60mph, you would need to know the mass of the car, the acceleration of the car, and the time it takes for the car to reach 60mph. The formula for average net force is mass x acceleration.

How does the weight of a car affect its average net force?

The weight of a car plays a significant role in determining its average net force. A heavier car will require a greater net force to accelerate to 60mph compared to a lighter car.

What are some factors that can affect the average net force on a car going 0-60mph?

Some factors that can affect the average net force on a car going 0-60mph include the car's weight, engine power, and air resistance. Road conditions and tire traction can also impact the average net force.

Why is understanding average net force important for car performance?

Understanding average net force is important for car performance because it helps determine how quickly a car can accelerate and how much power is needed to reach a certain speed. It also allows for comparisons between different cars and can help optimize engine and design choices for better performance.

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