What is the Average Force Exerted on Occupants by Seatbelts in a Car Collision?

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In summary, the question involves calculating the average force exerted on an 80 kg man and a 25 kg child, secured in a 1000 kg car with seatbelts, during a collision at 75 kph for 0.2 seconds. The equation used is f=ma and the answer for the man is 8333.3 Newtons. The car's weight is not a factor in this calculation.
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Homework Statement


A model of an 80 kg man and one of a 25 kg child in a 1000 kg car and secured with seatbelts. The car was moving at 75kph as it crashed into a break wall.If the collision took 0.2s, calculate the average force exerted on each model by its seat belt

.

Homework Equations


f=ma


The Attempt at a Solution


im really confused, I am thinking that for the man: 80x20.8 (75000/3600), the divide by 0.2, so the force is 8333.3 Newtons?

Does the car's weight have anything to do with this?
 
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Hi Dan, welcome to PF!

:biggrin:
dan1995420 said:
im really confused, I am thinking that for the man: 80x20.8 (75000/3600), the divide by 0.2, so the force is 8333.3 Newtons?
Yes
Does the car's weight have anything to do with this?
No.
 

Related to What is the Average Force Exerted on Occupants by Seatbelts in a Car Collision?

What are the forces exerted by a seatbelt?

The forces exerted by a seatbelt vary depending on the circumstances, but they generally include the force of inertia, tension, and friction. The force of inertia is the resistance to motion that occurs when a moving object suddenly stops or changes direction. The tension force is the force that pulls the seatbelt tight against the body to prevent the passenger from moving forward. The friction force is the force that occurs between the seatbelt and the passenger's body, which helps to slow down and stop the passenger's movement.

Why is it important to wear a seatbelt?

Wearing a seatbelt is crucial for safety while driving or riding in a vehicle. In the event of a sudden stop or impact, the seatbelt helps to restrain the passenger and prevent them from being thrown out of the vehicle or hitting the interior of the vehicle. This can greatly reduce the risk of injury or death in a car accident.

How does a seatbelt absorb energy?

Seatbelts are designed to absorb energy through the use of materials and mechanisms such as webbing, stitching, and retractors. When a collision or sudden stop occurs, the seatbelt stretches and deforms, which helps to slow down the passenger's movement and spread the impact force over a larger area. This helps to reduce the force exerted on the passenger's body and minimize the risk of injury.

Can wearing a seatbelt cause injuries?

While wearing a seatbelt can potentially cause injuries, the risk of injury is much lower than the risk of injury without wearing a seatbelt. Some common injuries from wearing a seatbelt include bruises, soreness, and in rare cases, broken ribs. However, these injuries are typically minor and are outweighed by the protection provided by the seatbelt in the event of an accident.

Do all vehicles have the same type of seatbelt?

No, different types of vehicles may have different types of seatbelts. Some common types include lap belts, which only go across the lap, and three-point seatbelts, which go across the lap and chest. Some newer vehicles also have additional safety features such as seatbelt pretensioners, which automatically tighten the seatbelt in the event of a collision.

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