Car collision, force exertion and impulse.

In summary: This is why the equation is simplified by just considering the collision point, and not the time taken for the head to hit the dashboard. In summary, the impact would last for a shorter period of time with padding present.
  • #1
TheAkuma
53
0
Hello everyone, I have a question which I have no idea how to work out.

Question: During a collision between two cars, a passangers head strikes an unpadded dashboard with an average force of 48N. This force is exerted for 3x10-3s. If suitable padding had been present the impact would have lasted for 0.6s. Explain with calculations how this would reduce injuries in collisions.


The only equation I know that involves force is F=mXa, but I don't think that's even relevant to this question.



I don't know how to attempt this question as my teacher never gave us a question like this before. If you could give me some feedback that would be awesome.
 
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  • #2
Well, here's the situation: the passenger's head is moving at some particular velocity. Then it collides with the dashboard, which slows it down to zero velocity. That much is always true, no matter how much padding is present on the dashboard. The effect of the padding is to spread out that slowdown over a longer period of time. Think about this: what effect does that have on the average force?
 
  • #3
diazona said:
Well, here's the situation: the passenger's head is moving at some particular velocity. Then it collides with the dashboard, which slows it down to zero velocity. That much is always true, no matter how much padding is present on the dashboard. The effect of the padding is to spread out that slowdown over a longer period of time. Think about this: what effect does that have on the average force?

Sorry about not understanding but I still don't get how to calculate it all out. I know that the 0.6s is better as there is more time for the force to spread out as the head hits the dashboard. But I just don't know how to use calculations for this question.
 
  • #4
You have the correct formula. Can you explain to me what the a stands for? Explain it in terms of speed then try to link it to your question.
 
  • #5
Two more formulas you should find helpful here are:
J = F*dt = dP
Where F is the average force. Keep in mind that in both collisions, the impulse the head will be providing to the dashboard will be the same.
 

FAQ: Car collision, force exertion and impulse.

What is a car collision?

A car collision is a type of accident that occurs when two or more vehicles or objects collide with each other. This can result in damage to the vehicles or objects, as well as injuries or fatalities to the occupants.

What is force exertion in a car collision?

Force exertion in a car collision refers to the amount of force that is applied to the vehicles or objects involved in the collision. This force can be caused by the movement of the vehicles, as well as the weight and speed of the vehicles.

How does force exertion affect the severity of a car collision?

The force exerted in a car collision can greatly impact the severity of the collision. The greater the force, the more damage and injuries are likely to occur. This is why car manufacturers and safety organizations place a lot of emphasis on creating vehicles that can absorb and distribute force in the event of a collision.

What is impulse in relation to a car collision?

In physics, impulse is defined as the change in momentum of an object. In the context of a car collision, impulse refers to the change in momentum of the vehicles involved in the collision. This change in momentum is what causes the force exertion and can result in damage and injuries.

How can we reduce the force exerted and impulse in a car collision?

There are a few ways to reduce the force exerted and impulse in a car collision. This includes wearing seatbelts, having proper airbags and safety features in the car, and following traffic laws and speed limits. Additionally, advancements in car design and technology, such as crumple zones and automatic braking systems, can also help to reduce force and impulse in a collision.

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