Math Problem Statement

A car travels along a straight road. The speed-time graph for this journey is shown.

During which labelled part of the journey is the resultant force on the car zero?

Solution

In the speed-time graph provided, the resultant force on the car is zero when the car is moving at a constant speed because there is no acceleration (Newton's First Law of Motion).

Looking at the graph:

  • Section A: The car is accelerating, so the resultant force is not zero.
  • Section B: The speed is constant, which means no acceleration and thus the resultant force is zero.
  • Section C: The speed is constant again, so the resultant force is zero.
  • Section D: The car is decelerating, so there is a negative acceleration and the resultant force is not zero.

Therefore, the resultant force on the car is zero during sections B and C of the journey.

Would you like more details or have any other questions? Here are some related questions:

  1. What does the area under the speed-time graph represent?
  2. How does the slope of the speed-time graph relate to acceleration?
  3. What would the graph look like if the car came to a stop?
  4. How does the concept of inertia relate to a flat section on a speed-time graph?
  5. Can you explain how friction affects the speed-time graph?

Tip: Remember, on a speed-time graph, a flat horizontal line indicates constant speed, where no net force is acting on the object.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Physics
Newton's Laws of Motion

Formulas

-

Theorems

Newton's First Law of Motion

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12