Re: [Phys-l] truck mileage

[Brian Whatcott <betwys1@sbcglobal.net>]

At 04:02 PM 5/7/2008, you wrote:
> >
> I have quite an interesting problem that I cannot explain...
>
> Our Ag teacher set up this scenario for me:
>
> one 5000# truck gets about 18 miles per gallon
> same 5000# truck pulling a 4000# trailer gets 8 miles per gallon
> same 5000# truck pulling a 4000# trailer + 10000# of cows ALSO  gets 8
> miles per gallon.
>
> Any ideas why the empty and the full trailer both get the same
> mileage?  This same pattern is also present in a different trailer and
> truck combination.
>
> thanks,
> Kathy
> Kathy Daniel
> Oakland High School
> Murfreesboro, TN  37130
> kcdohs@comcast.net

I have heard several comparable reports. The owners ascribe it to 
wind-resistance
(which I'm sure plays a part.)


Brian Whatcott    Altus OK    Eureka!