The thinking distance and braking distance for a car vary with the speed of the car - AQA - GCSE Physics - Question 8 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 8
The thinking distance and braking distance for a car vary with the speed of the car.
8.1 Explain the effect of two other factors on the braking distance of a car.
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Worked Solution & Example Answer:The thinking distance and braking distance for a car vary with the speed of the car - AQA - GCSE Physics - Question 8 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain the effect of two other factors on the braking distance of a car.
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Answer
Tyre Condition: Poor tyre condition can significantly affect braking distance. Worn or under-inflated tyres reduce the contact area with the road, diminishing grip and increasing stopping distance. This reduction in friction makes it harder for brakes to stop the vehicle effectively.
Road Surface: The condition of the road surface, such as being wet or icy, greatly influences braking distance. A slick surface reduces friction between the tyres and the road, which can lead to longer stopping distances as the wheels may skid rather than grip the surface.
Step 2
Which equation links acceleration (a), mass (m) and resultant force (F).
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Answer
resultant force = mass × acceleration
Step 3
Calculate the deceleration of the car.
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Answer
To find the deceleration, we use the formula:
F=mimesa
Given that the braking force (F) is 7200 N and the mass (m) is 1600 kg, we rearrange the equation:
a=mF=16007200=4.5 m/s2
Thus, the deceleration of the car is 4.5 m/s².
Step 4
Determine the stopping distance when the car is travelling at 80 km/h.
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Answer
From the graph (Figure 18), at 80 km/h, the stopping distance can be read as approximately 53 meters. Hence, the stopping distance at that speed is:
Stopping distance = 53 m.
Step 5
Which equation links area of a surface (A), the force normal to that surface (F) and pressure (p)?
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Answer
p = F / A
Step 6
Calculate the surface area of the piston.
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Answer
We know:
Pressure (p) = 120000 Pa,
Force (F) = 60 N.
Using the formula:
p=AF
we can rearrange it to find A:
A=pF=12000060=0.0005 m2
In standard form, this is:
A=5.0×10−4 m2.