Final answer:
The coefficient of friction between the car's tires and the road is approximately 0.185, calculated based on the balanced forces at constant velocity and the normal force due to the car's weight.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the coefficient of friction for a car driving at a constant velocity, we can use the fact that the force of the car's engine is balanced by the force of friction when at a steady speed. In this scenario, the engine exerts a force of 2000 N, and since the car moves at a consistent pace, this force must be equal in magnitude to the frictional force (but in the opposite direction).
The frictional force can be calculated using the formula: F_friction = μ * N, where μ is the coefficient of friction and N is the normal force. For a car moving horizontally, the normal force is equal to the weight of the car, which can be calculated as N = mass * g, where g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s²). The mass of the car is given as 1100 kg, so N = 1100 kg * 9.8 m/s² = 10780 N.
Since the engine force and frictional force are balanced, the coefficient of friction can be found by rearranging the equation: μ = F_friction / N. Plugging in the values, we get μ = 2000 N / 10780 N ≈ 0.185.
Therefore, the coefficient of friction between the car's tires and the road is approximately 0.185.