Why are F1 cars designed to be the shape the are ?
F1 cars are designed with the smallest possible frontal area
(where the drivers legs go) to minimise drag (friction).
The wings, spoilers and general shape, even the underbody are all designed with
aerodynamics, downforce and streamlining in mind. The car needs to pass through
the air as quickly as possible, gaining as many benefits from it as possible.
The holes in both sides of the car and above the drivers head
(shown in the picture above!)
all allow cold air to filter into the car to cool the engine.
(where the drivers legs go) to minimise drag (friction).
The wings, spoilers and general shape, even the underbody are all designed with
aerodynamics, downforce and streamlining in mind. The car needs to pass through
the air as quickly as possible, gaining as many benefits from it as possible.
The holes in both sides of the car and above the drivers head
(shown in the picture above!)
all allow cold air to filter into the car to cool the engine.
What is the fastest speed a F1 can travel at ?
Although it will be affected by the set up for specific tracks
Formula one cars can reach speeds of around 350kph! (kilometres per hour).
Formula one cars can reach speeds of around 350kph! (kilometres per hour).
What is down force and why is it important in F1 vehicles ?
Downforce is provided to F1 racing vehicles with the obvious wings, and the less obvious shape of its underside. The additional tons of downforce are used to increase the traction of the tires, for both acceleration/braking and for turns, 'sticking' to the road.
Why are the different tyres used for different tracks and weather conditions ?
Tyre are always a compromise:
Soft tyres have a firm grip but wear out quickly!
Harder tyres have less grip but they last longer!
Tyres get very hot at high speeds due to increased downforce
so harder tyres are used on fast circuits so they last a lot longer.
When water covers parts of the track control of the car becomes very difficult.
This is because water forms a layer between the tyre and the track, reducing
the normal (slick) tyres grip.
This effect is termed 'aquaplaning'.
'Wet' tyres with patterns resembling road tyres have to be fitted to the car to
remove the water. To increase grip these tyres are normally coated with a
softer rubber.
Soft tyres have a firm grip but wear out quickly!
Harder tyres have less grip but they last longer!
Tyres get very hot at high speeds due to increased downforce
so harder tyres are used on fast circuits so they last a lot longer.
When water covers parts of the track control of the car becomes very difficult.
This is because water forms a layer between the tyre and the track, reducing
the normal (slick) tyres grip.
This effect is termed 'aquaplaning'.
'Wet' tyres with patterns resembling road tyres have to be fitted to the car to
remove the water. To increase grip these tyres are normally coated with a
softer rubber.