Question

A little car of mass M1 has a maximum acceleration of 2.57m/s^2 when applying a force F1. What is the new maximum acceleration of the little car if it tows another car that has the same mass M1 and the same applied force F1?

Answer 1

Most autocrossers and race drivers learn early in their careers the importance of balancing a car. Learning to do it consistently and automatically is one essential part of becoming a truly good driver. While the skills for balancing a car are commonly taught in drivers’ schools, the rationale behind them is not usually adequately explained. That rationale comes from simple physics. Understanding the physics of driving not only helps one be a better driver, but increases one’s enjoyment of driving as well. If you know the deep reasons why you ought to do certain things you will remember the things better and move faster toward complete internalization of the skills.