Stopping Distances 2.4

These flashcards cover key concepts related to stopping distances, factors affecting them, and related physics principles.

What is the stopping distance of a car?

The total distance travelled during the time it takes for a car to stop in response to an emergency.

How is stopping distance calculated?

Stopping distance = Thinking distance + Braking distance.

What is thinking distance?

The distance travelled in the time it takes the driver to react, in metres.

What is braking distance?

The distance travelled under the braking force in metres.

How does speed affect stopping distance?

For a given braking force, the greater the speed of the vehicle, the greater the stopping distance.

What is Newton's Second Law formula?

F = ma, where F is force, m is mass, and a is acceleration.

What happens to brakes when they overheat?

They can fail, meaning they will not work effectively the next time they are used.

What can lead to loss of control when decelerating?

Decelerating can cause injuries and make it difficult to control a vehicle.

What is the typical human reaction time range?

0.2 to 0.9 seconds for someone who is alert.

What factors increase thinking distance?

Tiredness, distractions, and intoxication.

How does braking distance relate to kinetic energy?

Braking distance is proportional to the kinetic energy of the car, which is KE = ½mv².

What happens to braking distance when speed doubles?

The braking distance increases by a factor of 4.

What is the reaction distance equation?

Reaction Distance = Speed of the car × Driver’s reaction time.

What is the equation for braking distance in relation to mass and velocity?

Braking distance is proportional to the vehicle's velocity squared.

How do thinking and braking distances relate to speed?

Thinking distance is proportional to speed; braking distance is proportional to the speed squared.

Why is it important to prevent brakes from overheating?

Overheated brakes lose effectiveness, increasing braking distance.