Car Physics

            The topic I chose to study for assignment two is the physics behind auto racing. The first article I found on the web was called The Physics of Racing. The first part talked about weight transfers in cars when attempting certain manoeuvres. The second article explained important formulas commonly used by pit technicians. The third article summarised speeds and horsepower. This article helped me to understand the basic physics needed in understanding car racing. .
             The first step in learning the physics behind car racing is weight transfer when braking, accelerating, and turning. When breaking the weight of the car moves to the front of the car causing over steering. Accelerating in a car moves the weight to the back inducing under steering. When turning the weight of the car goes to the opposite side unloading the inside tires. The article explains says that inertia acting through the center of gravity causes this and these effects are proportional to the height of the vehicle, which is why racecars are usually low to the ground. To be a good race car driver it is very important too first understand weight distribution. .
             The second part of the article explained some basic calculations used in motor sports. The first equations is distance = velocityXtime. This equation is used to find any of the previous variables. The next equations uses acceleration measured in G's. The equation is Distance=half accelerationXtime squared. Understanding how to calculate these equations is essential for racing teams to determine what adjustments need to be made to the car to make it run faster, smoother, and move efficient. .
             The third article that I read was on speed and horsepower, which are closely related. A car moving could theoretically keep going forever but many forces slow it down. The most influential force that slows down cars is called air resistance or drag. The second and third forces is internal and external friction caused by the force of the tires against the ground and the parts in the car rubbing against the drive train causing deceleration.