Calculating Distance Traveled with Friction and Velocity

In summary, the problem is to calculate the distance a car will travel before coming to a complete stop after flipping over and skidding down the road at 32 m/s. The coefficient of friction between the metal and pavement is 0.42. By using the equation for force of friction, the acceleration can be determined and then used to solve for the distance traveled. The equation for acceleration is coefficient of friction x acceleration due to gravity, but the mass of the car is needed to find the final answer.
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Homework Statement


A car traveling at 32 m/s flips over onto its roof and skids down the road. If the coefficient of friction between metal and the pavement is 0.42, calculate how far the car will travel before coming to a complete stop.


Homework Equations


F=ma, Force of Kinetic Friction= Coefficient of Friction x Normal Force


The Attempt at a Solution


The car's initial velocity is 32m/s and its final velocity is 0m/s. Thus V0 is 32m/s and V1 is 0m/s. Given mass, acceleration, or time the problem would be simple. But given only velocity and the coefficient of friction I'm not even sure if this problem is possible.

Help?

EDIT: Solved.
 
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  • #2
It is possible. Try using the equation for the force of friction to solve for the acceleration and watch the magic happen.
 
  • #3
My god, how did I miss that?

So that leaves me with the equation acceleration=coefficient of friction x acceleration due to gravity.

Thanks a ton!
 
  • #4
You need the mass of the car. tell whoever gave you that problem to clean up their act.
 
  • #5
?
 

FAQ: Calculating Distance Traveled with Friction and Velocity

1. What is friction and how does it affect objects?

Friction is the force that resists motion between two surfaces that are in contact with each other. It can either slow down or completely stop the motion of an object.

2. What are the factors that affect the amount of friction between two surfaces?

The amount of friction between two surfaces depends on the roughness of the surfaces, the force pressing the objects together, and the type of material the surfaces are made of.

3. How is the force of friction calculated?

The force of friction can be calculated by multiplying the coefficient of friction (which depends on the materials in contact) by the normal force (the force pressing the objects together).

4. How does friction affect the motion of an object on an inclined plane?

Friction can either help or hinder the motion of an object on an inclined plane. If the force of friction is greater than the force of gravity pulling the object down the slope, the object will not move. If the force of friction is less than the force of gravity, the object will accelerate down the slope.

5. How can friction be reduced or eliminated?

Friction can be reduced by using lubricants between two surfaces, making the surfaces smoother, or by reducing the force pressing the objects together. It can also be eliminated in a vacuum, where there is no air or other particles to create resistance.

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