Question

A 1,200 kg dragster, starting from rest, reaches a maximum velocity of 140 m/s in 5 seconds. At the 5 second mark, the dragster deploys a parachute bringing it to a stop in 3.5 seconds. Calculate the acceleration of the dragster after the parachute is deployed.

Answer 1

The  acceleration of the dragster after the parachute is deployed is

$$a=\frac{0-v}{t}=-\frac{v}{t}$$

$$a=-\frac{140}{3.5}=-40\frac{m}{s^2}$$