In head-on collisions, both trucks experience equal forces according to Newton's Third Law. The F-4 experiments support this, showing that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. Choosing the truck with greater mass minimizes acceleration and potential injury.
1. Explanation based on F-4 Experiments:
In the F-4 experiments, Newton's Third Law of Motion is crucial. It states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. When the two trucks collide, the force exerted by the first truck on the second (action) is met with an equal force exerted by the second truck on the first (reaction). This law ensures that the forces experienced by each truck are of equal magnitude but act in opposite directions. Therefore, both trucks experience the same force during the collision.
2. Choice of Truck:
- In a head-on collision, both trucks experience the same force according to Newton's Third Law.
- Newton's Second Law (F = ma) emphasizes that the acceleration (a) is inversely proportional to the mass (m) when the force (F) is constant. Therefore, the truck with a greater mass experiences less acceleration during the collision.
- If the force is the same for both trucks (as established in the F-4 experiments), being in the truck with greater mass results in lower acceleration, potentially reducing the severity of injuries. Hence, I would rather be in the truck with greater mass.
The probable question may be:
Imagine two trucks that are involved in a head-on collision. Believe it or not, BOTH trucks experience the SAME FORCE when they collide!!!
1. Explain how you know that they experience the same force during the collision. Base your response on evidence from F-4 Experiments. (You must include evidence that you saw in the F-4 experiments and explain how it supports your answer to show your understanding.)
2. Which truck would you rather be in? Describe why by explaining the magnitude of the force and acceleration that each vehicle experiences. Explain thoroughly, with Newton's Second Law, to show your learning.