Power Problem: Accelerating a Car over Track Distance

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In summary, the problem states that a funny car accelerates from rest over a certain distance in a time T while being supplied with a constant power P. When the power is increased by a small amount dP, the time remains the same, but the power becomes P+dP. The question asks for the change in time required to cover the distance with the new increased power. To solve this, we can use the equation P = 2ms^2/T^3, where s is the distance and T is the time. By finding dP/dT and substituting it into the equation, we can solve for dT in terms of P, dP, and T. However, it should be noted that the formula s =
  • #1
twituksh12345
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Homework Statement



A funny car accelerates from rest covering a particular track distance in time T.The engine of the car supplies a constant power of P for the entire time T. Now, the power is increased by a small amount dP. The power P+dP is kept constant for the entire track distance.What is the change in the time, required to cover the track distance with the new increased power?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
twituksh12345 said:

Homework Statement



A funny car accelerates from rest covering a particular track distance in time T.The engine of the car supplies a constant power of P for the entire time T. Now, the power is increased by a small amount dP. The power P+dP is kept constant for the entire track distance.What is the change in the time, required to cover the track distance with the new increased power?

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


Welcome to PF.

How would you approach the problem?

What is the relationship between power and acceleration?
 
  • #3
Power P = F*s/T where s is the distance of the track.
SO p = m*a*s/T
If car takes time T to cover distance s, then s = 1/2*aT^2 or a = 2S/T^2. Substituting this in p we get
P = 2ms^2/T^3. Hence for a given mass and distance, P = k/T^3
Now find dP/dT and find dT in terms of P, dP and T.
 
  • #4
thank you very much for yr reply.
The solution that you provided gives the corect answer.
But, i do not understand one thing--
P= F.v
Now, since the car accelerates, v is not constant.
But as the power is constant, F should also vary.
Since mass is constant and F varies, acceleration should vary.
Under the conditions of changing acceleration, s=1/2at^2 is not true.
So, is it correct to apply the formula-- s=1/2at^2?
 

FAQ: Power Problem: Accelerating a Car over Track Distance

How does the power of a car affect its acceleration over a track distance?

The power of a car directly affects its acceleration over a track distance. Generally, the greater the power of a car, the faster it can accelerate. This is because power is the rate at which work is done, and accelerating a car requires work to be done.

Is there a specific power-to-weight ratio that is optimal for accelerating a car over a track distance?

Yes, there is an optimal power-to-weight ratio for accelerating a car over a track distance. This ratio varies depending on the type of track and the specific car, but in general, a higher power-to-weight ratio allows for faster acceleration.

How does the length of the track affect the power needed to accelerate a car over it?

The length of the track does not directly affect the power needed to accelerate a car over it. However, a longer track may require the car to maintain a higher speed for a longer period of time, which would require more power.

Are there any external factors that can impact the power needed to accelerate a car over a track distance?

Yes, there are external factors that can impact the power needed to accelerate a car over a track distance. These can include air resistance, rolling resistance, and gradient of the track. These factors can all affect the amount of power needed to overcome them and maintain a desired speed.

How can the power problem of accelerating a car over a track distance be solved?

The power problem of accelerating a car over a track distance can be solved by using a more powerful engine or motor, reducing the weight of the car, and optimizing the power-to-weight ratio. Other factors, such as aerodynamics and track conditions, should also be taken into consideration when attempting to solve this problem.

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