Physics 5.9.5

Question 1

Since Force is Equal to the Rate of Change in Momentum, how can you Decrease the Force of an Impact in a Vehicle Collision?

Answer 1

By Increasing the Contact Time over which the Collision Occurs.

Question 2

How are Vehicles Designed to Absorb Energy upon Impact, therefore Reducing the Force?

Answer 2

By Changing Shape upon Impact.

Question 3

What are the main Vehicle Safety Features that help to Reduce the Force of an Impact? (3)

Answer 3

-Crumple Zones.

-Seat Belts.

-Airbags.

Question 4

How do Vehicle Safety keep Passengers Safe During a Collision? (3)

Answer 4

-Absorb the Energy from an Impact, & so Increase the Time over which the Force Takes Place.

-This Increases the Time Taken for the Change in Momentum of the Passenger & the Vehicle to come to Rest.

-The Increases Rime Reduces the Force, & Risk of Injury on a Passenger.

Question 5

What does the Usefulness of Safety Equipment Depend on? (2)

Answer 5

-Mass.

-Velocity.

Question 6

Describe how Seat Belts work. (2)

Answer 6

-Designed to Stop Passengers from Colliding with the Interior of a Vehicle by keeping them Fixed to their Seat in an abrupt Stop.

-They are Designed to Stretch Slightly, to Increase the Time for the Passenger’s Momentum to Reach 0, & so Reduce the Force on them in a Collision.

Question 7

Describe how Airbags work. (2)

Answer 7

-Deployed at the Front of Car when a Collision Occurs.

-They Act as a Soft Cushion to Prevent Injury on the Passenger when they are Thrown Forward upon Impact.