Designing a Car for Coasting Race: Wheels

In summary, the conversation discusses the design of a car for a coasting race and the factors that affect its performance, such as wheel size, shape, and weight. The use of the moments of inertia equations is questioned, and it is concluded that the moment of inertia does not affect the performance of the car in the same way that it does for an object sliding down a slope.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



Suppose you are designing a car for a coasting race -- the cars in this race have no engines, they simply coast down a hill. Do you want large wheels or small wheels? Do you want solid, disk-like wheels, or hoop-like wheels? Should be wheels be heavy or light? (Select all that apply. Omit both choices in a pair if neither have a beneficial effect.)

Homework Equations


Moments of Inertia:
Hoop or thin cylindrical shell:
I=MR2
Solid cylinder:
I=(1/2)MR2

The Attempt at a Solution



The options are:

large
small
solid, disk-like
hoop-like
heavy
light

So I guessed small; solid, disk-like; and light because according to those equations above, those options would make it have a lower moment of inertia… but according to webassign, that is wrong, and I do not understand why. Can someone help?

Thank you in advance!
 
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  • #3
Well a lower moment of inertia would mean less resistance to motion right? so it would move more quickly? and yes this is related to the other question… Am I approaching it right by using moment of inertia?
 
  • #4
Linear inertia = mass.
You have a race between two blocks mass M and m with M>m sliding down a frictionless slope. Which one reaches the bottom first: the one with the big inertia or the one with the small inertia?
 
  • #5
hmm the one with the small inertia?
 
  • #6
Do the free body diagram for sliding down a slope angle ##\theta## to the horizontal.
 
  • #7
okay so FN=mgcosθ and ma=mgsinθ
 
  • #8
... so which mass reaches the bottom first?
 
  • #9
they reach the bottom at the same time?
 
  • #10
... since they experience the same force, they have the same acceleration, their inertia does not matter.

Now you need something similar for an object rolling: which is where that other thread comes in. Answer that and you'll have this answer as well.
 

Related to Designing a Car for Coasting Race: Wheels

What is the purpose of designing a car for coasting race?

The purpose of designing a car for coasting race is to create a vehicle that can travel the longest distance with the least amount of energy input. This type of race focuses on using the car's momentum and gravity to propel it forward, rather than relying on a motor or engine.

What are the key factors to consider when designing wheels for a coasting race car?

The key factors to consider when designing wheels for a coasting race car are weight, aerodynamics, and rolling resistance. Lighter wheels will reduce the overall weight of the car, making it easier to coast. Aerodynamic wheels can reduce drag and improve the car's speed. And wheels with low rolling resistance will minimize friction and allow the car to coast further.

What materials are commonly used for coasting race car wheels?

The most commonly used materials for coasting race car wheels are carbon fiber and aluminum. These materials are lightweight and strong, making them ideal for reducing the weight of the car while also providing durability. Some teams may also use specialized materials such as Kevlar or titanium for their wheels.

How do the size and shape of wheels affect the performance of a coasting race car?

The size and shape of wheels can greatly impact the performance of a coasting race car. Larger wheels can provide more momentum and stability, while smaller wheels may be lighter and have less drag. The shape of the wheels, particularly the rim design, can also affect aerodynamics and rolling resistance.

Are there any regulations or restrictions on wheel design for coasting race cars?

Yes, there are typically regulations and restrictions on wheel design for coasting race cars. These may include limits on wheel size, weight, and materials used. It is important for teams to carefully follow these rules to ensure fair competition and for safety reasons.

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