Find the distance the car travels before it stops

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In summary, to find the distance a car travels before it stops, we need to use the equation for the force of friction, which is equal to the coefficient of friction multiplied by the normal force. We also need to convert the car's speed from 50 km/hr to m/s. The normal force can be found by equating the work of the frictional force to the change in kinetic energy of the car. From there, we can use the equation for work to find the distance.
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scoles
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A car wants to stop. The coefficient of friction is 0.3 and the mass of the car is 2000 kg. The car is traveling at 50 km/hr. Find the distance the car travels before it stops.

I know that the force of friction= the coefficient of friction x the normal force. I also know that I need to change 50 km/hr to m/s. I can't quite figure out how to find the normal force on this one(would i subtract friction from it or add it or what), and I don't see how I could find the distance it would take to stop because I do not know the time or the acceleration. Please help!
 
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The work of the frictional force must equal the change of kinetic energy of the car, start with that.
 
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radou said:
The work of the frictional force must equal the change of kinetic energy of the car, start with that.

so does that mean that the force of friction equals the change in velocity?
 

FAQ: Find the distance the car travels before it stops

How do you calculate the distance a car travels before stopping?

The distance a car travels before stopping can be calculated using the formula: distance = (initial velocity)^2 / (2 * braking deceleration). This formula assumes that the car is traveling at a constant initial velocity and experiences a constant braking deceleration until it comes to a complete stop.

What factors affect the distance a car travels before stopping?

The distance a car travels before stopping is affected by several factors, including the initial velocity of the car, the braking force applied, the mass of the car, and the coefficient of friction between the car's tires and the road surface. Additionally, external factors such as road conditions and weather can also impact the distance a car travels before stopping.

How can the distance a car travels before stopping be reduced?

The distance a car travels before stopping can be reduced by increasing the braking force applied, reducing the car's initial velocity, or improving the coefficient of friction between the tires and the road. Additionally, regular maintenance and proper tire inflation can also help reduce the stopping distance of a car.

What is the difference between stopping distance and braking distance?

Stopping distance refers to the total distance a car travels before coming to a complete stop, whereas braking distance specifically refers to the distance traveled while the car is actively braking. Stopping distance also includes the distance traveled while the driver perceives and reacts to the need to brake, also known as the reaction distance.

Can the distance a car travels before stopping be accurately predicted?

While there are formulas and factors that can be used to estimate the distance a car will travel before stopping, it is difficult to accurately predict the exact distance. This is due to the constantly changing conditions on the road and the varying abilities and reactions of different drivers. Ultimately, the distance a car travels before stopping will depend on the specific circumstances and events at the time of braking.

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