Back to Problems
F = ma (11–17)
Work & Energy
FMA-2014-15 · 2014 F = ma (AAPT)

2014 F = ma Exam — Question 15

15. The maximum torque output from the engine of a new experimental car of mass m is τ. The maximum rotational speed of the engine is ω. The engine is designed to provide a constant power output P. The engine is connected to the wheels via a perfect transmission that can smoothly trade torque for speed with no power loss. The wheels have a radius R, and the coefficient of static friction between the wheels and the road is µ. What is the maximum sustained speed v the car can drive up a 30 degree incline? Assume no frictional losses and assume µ is large enough so that the tires do not slip.
Source: Question 15, 2014 F = ma Exam, © 2014 American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) and the U.S. Physics Team. Adapted by PhysicsTrainer: reformatted into a separate question and answer choices for online multiple-choice practice; any shared setup from nearby questions is repeated here. Not affiliated with or endorsed by AAPT or the U.S. Physics Team.