Average Power of a Car: How to Calculate and Understand It

In summary, the problem involves finding the average power of a car that has a mass of 2000 kg and can accelerate from 0 to 120 km/h in 3.5 seconds. The average power can be calculated using the equation W/t or (F*d)/t, where F is the force and d is the displacement. The force of the car can be determined using the work-energy theorem, which relates work done to kinetic energy, instead of assuming a constant acceleration.
  • #1
eshock202
3
0

Homework Statement


mass of a car is 2000 kg that can go from 0-120 km/h in 3.5 seconds. What is the average power?

Homework Equations


I know that the average power is Work/time, or (force * displacement)/time = F*average velocity.

My only question is how to find the force of the car? is it just Mass*g?



The Attempt at a Solution

 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
F=ma

In this case, the acceleration is not g, but something else.

If you consider the acceleration to be constant, you can easily determine the acceleration from the time and speed given in the initial conditions
 
  • #3
It's probably easier to use the work-energy theorem, which relates the work done to the kinetic energy. Then you don't have to assume that the acceleration was constant.
 

Related to Average Power of a Car: How to Calculate and Understand It

1. What is the average power of a car?

The average power of a car can vary greatly depending on the size, type, and make of the car. On average, a small car may have around 100 horsepower, while a larger, more powerful car can have up to 500 horsepower.

2. How is the average power of a car measured?

The average power of a car is typically measured in horsepower (hp) or kilowatts (kW). It is usually determined by testing the car's engine on a dynamometer, which measures the torque and rotational speed of the engine.

3. What factors affect the average power of a car?

The average power of a car can be affected by various factors, including the engine size, type of fuel, transmission, and weight of the car. The aerodynamics and design of the car can also play a role in its power output.

4. How does the average power of a car impact its performance?

The average power of a car is a significant factor in its overall performance. A higher power output can result in faster acceleration and higher top speed, while a lower power output may result in slower performance.

5. Is there a difference between average power and peak power of a car?

Yes, there is a difference between average power and peak power of a car. The average power is the average output over a period of time, while peak power is the maximum power output that the car can achieve at a specific moment. The peak power is often higher than the average power as it represents the car's full potential.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
20
Views
988
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
824
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
25
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
15
Views
1K
Back
Top