What causes a car to accelerate?

Acceleration occurs when the net force acting on an object in the direction of its motion is greater than zero. In the case of a car, this force is provided by the engine. When the driver steps on the gas pedal, the engine produces a torque that causes the wheels to turn. This torque creates a force that pushes the car forward.

The amount of acceleration experienced by a car depends on the amount of force applied and the mass of the car. A car with a more powerful engine will accelerate faster than a car with a less powerful engine. Similarly, a lighter car will accelerate faster than a heavier car.

Other factors that can affect acceleration include drag, friction, and rolling resistance. Drag is the resistance of air to the motion of the car. Friction is the resistance of the road surface to the motion of the car. Rolling resistance is the resistance of the tires to the motion of the car. All of these factors can slow down the acceleration of a car.

By understanding the factors that affect acceleration, drivers can learn how to drive more efficiently and safely.