Question 1: Braking distance is the distance a vehicle travels from the moment the driver applies the brakes until it comes to a complete stop. It depends on factors such as initial speed, vehicle mass, and road conditions.

Answer: Braking distance is the distance travelled by a vehicle from braking to stop, affected by speed, mass, and road conditions.

Question 2: List three factors that can influence the braking distance of a vehicle.

Answer: Speed of the vehicle, road surface condition, vehicle mass, brake efficiency, tyre condition.

Question 1: Calculate the braking distance of a car travelling at 20 m/s if the deceleration due to braking is 5 m/s². Use the formula: s = v² / (2a), where s is the braking distance, v is the initial velocity, and a is the deceleration.

Answer: s = (20)^2 / (2 * 5) = 400 / 10 = 40 metres

Question 2: A motorcycle travelling at 15 m/s requires a braking distance of 45 metres to stop. What is the approximate deceleration during braking?

Answer: a = v² / (2s) = (15)^2 / (2 * 45) = 225 / 90 = 2.5 m/s²

Question 1: Describe a simple experiment to measure the braking distance of a bicycle on different surfaces. Include the variables that should be controlled and safety precautions.

Answer: Students can use a bicycle and a measuring tape to record the distance from a marked starting point to the point where the bicycle stops after applying the brakes from a set initial speed. Variables to control include initial speed, brake type, and rider's weight. Surface conditions such as dry, wet, or gravel should be tested separately. Safety precautions include wearing helmets, ensuring the area is clear of obstacles, and checking that brakes are functioning properly.

Question 1: A vehicle travelling at 25 m/s takes 62.5 metres to stop after applying brakes. Assuming constant deceleration, calculate the deceleration and comment on whether this value seems reasonable.

Answer: a = v² / (2s) = (25)^2 / (2 * 62.5) = 625 / 125 = 5 m/s². This deceleration is typical for emergency braking on dry asphalt.

Question 1: Explain how weather conditions, such as rain or snow, affect braking distance and suggest safety measures drivers should take.

Answer: Rain or snow reduce tyre grip, increasing braking distance. Drivers should reduce speed, increase following distance, and ensure tyres are suitable for wet conditions.

Question 2: In the context of autonomous vehicles, discuss how understanding and calculating braking distances are critical for safety systems.

Answer: Autonomous vehicles rely on sensors and algorithms to calculate safe braking distances in real-time. Accurate data ensures the vehicle can respond promptly to hazards, preventing collisions. Understanding braking distances helps in designing braking systems that can operate effectively under various conditions, enhancing overall safety.