Estimating Decelerating Forces (AQA GCSE Physics)

Estimating Decelerating Forces

Higher Tier Only

• The work done by the brakes when a vehicle slows to a halt is given by the following equation:

This equation shows the work done (energy transferred) by the brakes on the wheels of a car

• This equation shows that:

  • The work done is the transfer of kinetic energy

  • The braking distance is proportional to the speed squared (if the speed is doubled, the distance increases 4 times)

• We can use this equation to estimate the decelerating forces required for a typical vehicle moving at everyday speeds