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

2433 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

A ball of mass 0.25 kg is travelling with a velocity of 1.2 m/s when it collides with an identical, stationary ball. After the collision, the two balls move together with the same velocity. How fast are they moving?


On a speed/time graph: a) how would a constant deceleration be illustrated? b) how would you use the graph to calculate total distance travelled?


A car is travelling at 20 m/s. The accelerator is applied, causing an acceleration of 2m/s^s. How fast is the car travelling after 10 seconds of acceleration?


With the help of a suitably labelled graph, explain what is meant by resonance of a mechanical system.


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