Physics 11-forces

Question

An object with more mass,m, should be more difficult to slow down. However, if you examine your FBD, you will notice that many of the forces present also depend directly on mass,m. Explain why the mass of a vehicle does not matter by discussing how the forest present can offset or counter the increase in inertia (mass)?

Answer 1

Hi Ria G.,

So you drove your car into a tree? The tree is generally able to present a "frictional" force on your car sufficient to stop it. The initlal apparent momentum of the car relative to the underlying Earth is simply merged back with it, just as it was acquired from it by some excessive engine power applied. (Excessive, assuming you didn't really WANT to crash the car??)

-- Cheers, --Mr. d.