Comparing Forces in Car Collisions

In summary, based on Newton's 3rd Law, the forces between the two cars in all three scenarios would be equal and opposite. The greater velocity or direction of the cars does not affect the magnitude of the forces.
  • #1
JL-Wsixx
5
0

Homework Statement


1. A red car with a velocity of 20mph north collides with a blue car that is stopped at a stoplight. On which car is the force greater?

2. A red car with a velocity of 25mph north collides with a blue car with a velocity of 15 mph north. Which one feels a greater force?

3. A red car traveling at 25 mph north collides with a blue car traveling at 15mph south. Which car experiences the greater force?




Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF!

Hi JL-Wsixx! Welcome to PF! :wink:

Tell us what you think, and then we'll comment :smile:
 
  • #3
What does Newton's 3rd Law say?
 
  • #4
Well, for #1 I think that the red car would have a greater force being that it's in motion with a v=20 mph and not a standstill like the blue car which has a net force=0.

For #2, again I think that the red car has a greater force because its velocity is greater than the blue car same as with problem 3.

Newton's 3rd law says that when one object exerts a force on a second object, the second exerts an equal and oppositely directed force on the first.

So does this mean that there force are the same?
 
  • #5
JL-Wsixx said:
Newton's 3rd law says that when one object exerts a force on a second object, the second exerts an equal and oppositely directed force on the first.

So does this mean that there force are the same?

erm … yes! :smile:
 
  • #6
So, the red cars greater velocity or the directions of the cars doesn't come into affect?
 
  • #7
Correct. :smile:
 
  • #8
Cool, thanks :)
 

Related to Comparing Forces in Car Collisions

What are the main forces involved in a car collision?

The main forces involved in a car collision are the force of impact, which is the force exerted on the car by an external object, and the force of inertia, which is the resistance of the car to change its state of motion.

How does the speed of a car affect the forces in a collision?

The speed of a car directly affects the force of impact in a collision. The higher the speed, the greater the force of impact. This means that a car traveling at a higher speed will experience a more severe impact in a collision.

What is the difference between elastic and inelastic collisions?

In an elastic collision, the total kinetic energy of the system is conserved, meaning that the objects involved bounce off each other without any loss of energy. In an inelastic collision, some of the kinetic energy is converted into other forms of energy, such as sound or heat, and is not conserved.

How can we measure the forces in a car collision?

There are various methods for measuring the forces in a car collision, including using accelerometers, crash test dummies, and analyzing the damage to the vehicles involved. These methods can provide valuable data for understanding the dynamics of a car collision.

What safety measures can be taken to reduce the impact of forces in a car collision?

Proper use of seatbelts, airbags, and crumple zones in a car can greatly reduce the impact of forces in a collision. Additionally, following traffic laws and speed limits, avoiding distractions while driving, and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles can also help minimize the impact of forces in a car collision.

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