A car of mass M and a maximum power output of P is on an rough inclined plane Θ to the horizontal. What is the maximum velocity (v). Coefficient of friction=μ and air resistance=kv where k is constant

At the maximum velocity the driving force of the car is equal to the sum of the opposing forces: Fdriving=Ffriction+Fair+mgsinΘ Ffriction=mgμcosΘ Fair=kv p=[mgμcosΘ+ kv+mgsinΘ]v = [μcosΘ+sinΘ]mgv+kv2 kv2+[μcosΘ+sinΘ]mgv-p=0 solve using the quadratic equation: v= -[μcosΘ+sinΘ]mg ± [ ([μcosΘ+sinΘ]mg)2+4kp]1/2 . 2k We only want the positive root as, the direction of velocity is up the incline therefore: v= -[μcosΘ+sinΘ]mg + [ ([μcosΘ+sinΘ]mg)2+4kp]1/2 . 2k

JB
Answered by Joel B. Physics tutor

2186 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How could I calculate the internal resistance of a cell?


Is a photon a wave or a particle??


Discuss the difference between sharpness and contrast in x-ray imaging


Describe and explain the photoelectric effect in terms of photons interacting with the surface of a metal.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning