Education Technology

The Science of Racing: Coefficient of Friction (Skid Pad)

Subject Area
Science: Physical Science: Friction
Science: Physics: Forces and Motion
Math: Algebra I: Equations and Inequalities
Math: Algebra I: Functions and Relations
Level
6-8
9-12
Activity Time
90 Minutes
TI Calculator
TI-Nspire™ CX series
TI-Nspire™ CX CAS/CX II CAS
TI-Nspire Version
3.0

The Science of Racing: Coefficient of Friction (Skid Pad)

Activity Overview

In this activity, students will find the coefficient of friction for a car and use it to decide which tires to use on certain surfaces.

About the Lesson

Because racing can happen on various surfaces, teams must be prepared to choose the best tires for the surface on which they are racing. Knowing the coefficient of friction between different tires or tire coatings and surfaces will allow teams to choose the best tire for a particular surface and race. A higher coefficient of friction will allow for a higher speed without sliding.

Subject Area
Science: Physical Science: Friction
Science: Physics: Forces and Motion
Math: Algebra I: Equations and Inequalities
Math: Algebra I: Functions and Relations
Level
6-8
9-12
Activity Time
90 Minutes
TI Calculator
TI-Nspire™ CX series
TI-Nspire™ CX CAS/CX II CAS
TI-Nspire Version
3.0
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