Question

The design of formula one (F1) cars facilitates them to acquire very high speeds. The main purpose of designing these cars in special shapes is to:

• A. reduce the air drag
  
• B. reduce the car weight
• C. provide sitting comfort to the racer
• D. make them look stylish

Answer 1

The correct option is A reduce the air drag


The opposing force that acts on an object moving in a fluid is called drag. An object that is moving in air must overcome this opposing drag. To reduce this drag, F1 cars are designed in a streamlined shape. The given figure shows the direction of air drag with respect to the direction of motion of the car.
The streamlined shape of the F1 car allows air to flow over its surface easily and smoothly. This helps in achieving a relatively higher speed in lesser time and also, less fuel is consumed.