A Formula 1 racing car uses up its fuel during the race, causing its lap times to decrease - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 24 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 24
A Formula 1 racing car uses up its fuel during the race, causing its lap times to decrease.
The lap times decrease because
A the acceleration of the car increases.... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A Formula 1 racing car uses up its fuel during the race, causing its lap times to decrease - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 24 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
A the acceleration of the car increases.
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Answer
This statement is incorrect as the lap times decreasing are not directly related to an increase in acceleration. During a race, a car achieving a higher speed does not necessarily mean its acceleration is continually increasing.
Step 2
B the drag forces on the car decrease.
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Answer
This is the likely correct answer. As the car uses fuel, it becomes lighter, which means it experiences less drag. Reduced drag forces can lead to improved performance and faster lap times.
Step 3
C the maximum speed of the car increases.
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Answer
This statement is misleading. While weight loss due to fuel consumption might enhance speed indirectly, it is the overall performance rather than just maximum speed that affects lap times.
Step 4
D the tyres become worn, reducing the friction with the road.
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Answer
This statement is incorrect. While worn tyres could reduce grip and increase lap times, the question stipulates that lap times decrease, implying better performance, not worse.
