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Aerodynamics and Gas Mileage *

Difficulty
Time Required Long (2-4 weeks)
*Note: This is an abbreviated Project Idea, without notes to start your background research, a specific list of materials, or a procedure for how to do the experiment. You can identify abbreviated Project Ideas by the asterisk at the end of the title. If you want a Project Idea with full instructions, please pick one without an asterisk.

Abstract

Does your car have a roof rack that you use sometimes (e.g., for skis, or bicycles)? How is your gas mileage affected by the increased drag? Measure the car's average gas mileage with and without the rack. Is there an effect? Is there more of an effect at higher speed? Figure out a way to estimate gas mileage during city driving and during highway driving to find out.

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Last edit date: 2013-01-10

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