Fast Car Physics
The world of motor sports is rich with excitement and competition—and physics. In Fast Car Physics, Chuck Edmondson applies an array of physics concepts to the racetrack, illuminating the ways that an understanding of the science can heighten our appreciation of the sport.
Edmondson shows, for example, that smaller diameter wheels produce a larger acceleration, and helps us estimate 0 to 60 mph times and quarter-mile times from torque curves. (Street tires, we find, are capable of a minimum 0 to 60 mph time of about 2.5 seconds.) He goes on to show how vector analysis can help us learn to take advantage of the width of a track, and he develops a method to find the center of gravity for the car. In a subsequent section, we study a variety of factors that affect tire performance; when turning, the front tires must be turned to an angle beyond the direction of the instantaneous velocity; this is called the slip angle. Also, if we multiply the tire pressure by the road contact area for the four tires, the product equals the vehicle’s equilibrium weight.
Later on in the book, we develop a physical understanding of steering, suspensions, springs and dampers. It is possible to model cars as simple harmonic oscillators, and dampers must control oscillations at the resonant frequencies. The final chapter acquaints us with a number of green automotive technologies. We see, for example, that the use of alternative fuels is an excellent way to extend the effectiveness of petroleum. We also learn how the hydrogen fuel cell works and find that, from a refueling perspective, it is a significant improvement over recharging a battery.
Whether you’re a racing fan, a physics buff, or both, you’ll find Fast Car Physics an entertaining read.
Softcover : 248 pages
Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press ( January 24, 2011 )
Item #: 13-440285
ISBN: 9780801898235
Product Dimensions: 6.0 x 9.0 inches
Product Weight: 12.0 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
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