Re: crash tests

[FBFISH@aol.com]

In a message dated 12/13/99 11:20:47 AM Eastern Standard Time, 
Tom.Thomas@doa.state.wi.us writes:

<< I believe physics shows us that 2 cars head-on each going 30mph is not the
 same as 1 car going 60 into a parked car.  Each car absorbs 30mph, not 1
 absorbing none (unless it is a semi-truck) and the other car absorbing all.
 Small point, but a common misconception.   >>

The applicable equation is 1/2 mV squared. In the case of only one car 
moving, the energy to be absorbed is twice what it would be for the case with 
both cars moving. This is because the energy varies with the square of the 
velocity. Physics rules.
Frank Santoro