Force constant of rear suspension of car

In summary, the conversation is about finding the force constant of a car's rear suspension after a 110 kg box is loaded into the trunk and the height of the bumper decreases by 13 cm. The suggested approach is to use Hooke's law, with the force constant being represented by "k" and the displacement being represented by "x".
  • #1
Huskies213
34
0
Can anyone help with the formula set ups for this ?

A 110 kg box is loaded into the trunk of a car. If the height of the car's bumper decreases by 13 cm, what is the force constant of the rear suspension ?
 
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  • #2
Huskies213 said:
Can anyone help with the formula set ups for this ?

A 110 kg box is loaded into the trunk of a car. If the height of the car's bumper decreases by 13 cm, what is the force constant of the rear suspension ?

Sounds like a Hooke's law problem, F = kx, k is the spring (force?) constant, and x is the displacement from the equilibrium position, how much the spring is compressed or stretched. Does this help?
 
  • #3


The force constant of the rear suspension of a car can be calculated using Hooke's Law, which states that the force exerted by a spring is directly proportional to the displacement of the spring from its equilibrium position. In this case, the displacement is the 13 cm decrease in the height of the car's bumper and the force is the weight of the 110 kg box.

The formula for Hooke's Law is F = -kx, where F is the force, k is the force constant, and x is the displacement. Rearranging the formula to solve for k, we get k = -F/x.

Plugging in the values, we get k = -(110 kg * 9.8 m/s^2) / (0.13 m) = -847.69 N/m.

Therefore, the force constant of the rear suspension of the car is approximately 847.69 N/m. This means that for every 1 meter the suspension is compressed, it will exert a force of 847.69 N. This information can be useful for designing and adjusting the suspension system of a car for optimal performance and comfort.
 
  • #4


The force constant of the rear suspension of a car is a measure of how stiff or rigid the suspension is. It is typically represented by the symbol "k" and is measured in units of force per unit length, such as N/m or lb/in. The formula for calculating the force constant is as follows:

k = F / x

Where k is the force constant, F is the applied force, and x is the displacement.

In this scenario, we can use the weight of the box (110 kg) as the applied force, and the decrease in height of the bumper (13 cm = 0.13 m) as the displacement. Therefore, the force constant would be:

k = (110 kg) / (0.13 m) = 846.15 N/m

This means that for every unit of length the bumper decreases, there is a force of 846.15 N acting on the suspension. This information can be useful in understanding the performance and handling of the car, as well as determining any necessary adjustments to the suspension.
 

FAQ: Force constant of rear suspension of car

1. What is the force constant of the rear suspension of a car?

The force constant of the rear suspension of a car refers to the stiffness of the suspension system, which determines how much force is required to compress or extend the suspension. It is typically measured in units of N/m (Newtons per meter).

2. How is the force constant of the rear suspension calculated?

The force constant of the rear suspension can be calculated by dividing the force applied to the suspension by the resulting displacement. This calculation can be done using a variety of methods, such as using specialized equipment or through mathematical equations.

3. What factors affect the force constant of the rear suspension?

The force constant of the rear suspension can be affected by various factors, including the design and materials used in the suspension system, the weight and distribution of the car, and external forces such as road conditions and driving style.

4. Why is the force constant of the rear suspension important?

The force constant of the rear suspension is important because it directly affects the ride and handling of the car. A higher force constant means a stiffer suspension, which can provide better handling and stability, but may also result in a harsher ride. On the other hand, a lower force constant can provide a more comfortable ride, but may sacrifice handling and stability.

5. Can the force constant of the rear suspension be adjusted?

Yes, the force constant of the rear suspension can be adjusted by changing the components of the suspension system, such as the springs, shocks, and sway bars. This allows car owners to customize their suspension to their desired level of stiffness and comfort.

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