Forces and Energy
What is force?
A push or pull that can change the motion, direction, or shape of an object.
What powers a Co2 Dragster?
A small CO₂ gas cartridge.
Define aerodynamics.
The study of how air flows around objects.
What is a system in engineering terms?
A group of components working together to achieve a function.
Free Points!
Go you!!
What type of energy does a stretched rubber band have?
Potential energy.
Why do students design dragsters with smooth shapes?
To reduce air resistance (drag) and improve speed.
Give one feature of an aerodynamic dragster design.
Streamlined body shape, thin nose cone, or small surface area.
Why is it important to align the axles of a dragster correctly?
To reduce friction and keep the car moving straight.
Why is it important to test prototypes?
To identify problems and make improvements.
When the rubber band is released, what type of energy does it transfer into?
Kinetic energy.
How is friction created in a dragster?
From the wheels rolling on the track and the air pushing against the body.
What does reducing drag do to a vehicle?
Increases speed and efficiency.
Give an example of energy transfer in a dragster race.
Chemical energy in the CO₂ cartridge → kinetic energy moving the dragster.
What safety considerations should students follow when racing dragsters?
Wear safety glasses, stand back from the track, and handle CO₂ cartridges safely.
State Newton’s First Law of Motion in simple terms.
Objects stay still or keep moving unless a force acts on them.
What materials are CO₂ dragsters usually made from in school projects?
Lightweight wood such as balsa or pine.
Why are rounded or pointed shapes faster than flat shapes in dragsters?
They allow air to flow smoothly over the surface, reducing turbulence.
What type of motion do wheels demonstrate?
Rotary motion.
How can lessons from real car aerodynamics apply to school dragsters?
Concepts like streamlined shapes and lightweight materials are used in both.
How does mass affect the motion of a CO₂ dragster?
The heavier the dragster, the more force is required to accelerate it.
Which law of motion best explains how the dragster is propelled forward?
Newton’s Third Law – for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
What is the purpose of testing and modifying dragster designs?
To evaluate performance and improve speed, stability, or accuracy.
The wheels of a dragster are part of which system?
The mechanical system.
What is the purpose of sketching dragster designs before building?
To plan ideas and predict performance.