Calculating Force Exerted by 1000kg Car on 450kg Trailer

In summary, the problem involves a 1000kg car pulling a 450kg trailer and exerting a horizontal force of 3500N to accelerate. The question asks for the force exerted by the car on the trailer, taking into account a friction coefficient of 0.15 for the trailer. To determine the speed of the car when the driver slammed on the brakes, the investigators measured a skid mark of 88m on a rainy day with a coefficient of friction of 0.42, and determined that the mass of the car does not affect the calculation.
  • #1
dabouncerx24
11
0
The problem is, a 1000kg car pulls a 450kg trailer. The car exerts a horizontal force of 3500N against the ground in order to accelerate. What force does the car exert on the trailer? Assume a friction coefficient of 0.15 for the trailer.
 
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  • #2
dabouncerx24 said:
The problem is, a 1000kg car pulls a 450kg trailer. The car exerts a horizontal force of 3500N against the ground in order to accelerate. What force does the car exert on the trailer? Assume a friction coefficient of 0.15 for the trailer.

You need to either add the frictional force to the 3500N or subtract it. The frictional force equals (0.15)(mg) or (0.15)(450)(9.81).
 
  • #3
I don't get why adding the friction force to 3500N is logical? Can you please explain it to me.
 
  • #4
Do the forces analysis...
 
  • #5
Well I figured out that problem.

Here is another one, please assist me.

At an accident scene on a level road, investigators measure a car;s skid mark to be 88m long. It was a rainy day and the coefficient of friction was estimated to be 0.42. Use these dta to determine the speed of the car when the driver slammed on the brakes (why does the car's mass not matter).

So far I figured I would use Fd=KE-KE' so all the ms will cancel each other.
 

FAQ: Calculating Force Exerted by 1000kg Car on 450kg Trailer

How do you calculate the force exerted by a 1000kg car on a 450kg trailer?

To calculate the force exerted by the car on the trailer, we can use the formula F = m x a, where F is the force, m is the mass, and a is the acceleration. In this case, we can assume that the car and trailer are moving at a constant velocity, so the acceleration is 0. Therefore, the force exerted by the car on the trailer is simply the product of their masses, which is 1000kg x 9.8m/s^2 = 9800N.

Why is it important to calculate the force exerted by a car on a trailer?

Calculating the force exerted by a car on a trailer is important because it can help us understand the physical forces at play in a towing situation. This information can be useful for determining the appropriate vehicle and trailer combination, as well as ensuring the safety of both the driver and other vehicles on the road.

What factors can affect the force exerted by a car on a trailer?

The force exerted by a car on a trailer can be affected by several factors, including the weight and distribution of the load in the trailer, the speed and acceleration of the vehicle, the condition of the road, and the presence of any external forces such as wind or inclines.

How does the force exerted by a car on a trailer impact the performance of the vehicle?

The force exerted by the car on the trailer can impact the performance of the vehicle in several ways. It can affect the acceleration, braking, and handling of the vehicle, as well as its fuel efficiency. It is important to ensure that the force exerted by the car on the trailer is within the vehicle's capabilities to maintain safe and efficient operation.

How can the force exerted by a car on a trailer be minimized?

To minimize the force exerted by a car on a trailer, it is important to properly distribute the weight of the load in the trailer and to avoid overloading the trailer. Additionally, maintaining a steady speed and avoiding sudden acceleration or braking can help reduce the force exerted. Using appropriate towing equipment and following recommended weight and speed limits can also help minimize the force exerted by the car on the trailer.

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