Question 1: Explain what is meant by 'stopping distance' in the context of vehicle safety.

Answer: Stopping distance is the total distance a vehicle travels from the moment the driver detects a hazard to when the vehicle comes to a complete stop.

Question 2: Describe the two main components that make up the total stopping distance.

Answer: The two main components are the thinking distance and the braking distance.

Question 1: List three factors that increase the braking distance of a vehicle.

Answer: Poor road conditions, high speed, worn brake pads.

Question 2: How does increasing the speed of a vehicle affect its stopping distance? Explain briefly.

Answer: Increasing speed increases the stopping distance because kinetic energy (which needs to be dissipated) is proportional to the square of the speed.

Question 1: Calculate the braking distance of a car travelling at 20 m/s if the deceleration is 5 m/s². Use the formula: s = v² / (2a).

Answer: 40 metres

Question 2: A vehicle takes 4 seconds to come to rest after applying brakes at a speed of 25 m/s. What is its average deceleration? (Use a = v / t).

Answer: 6.25 m/s²

Question 1: Describe a simple experiment to measure the braking distance of a bicycle.

Answer: Use a bicycle on a flat surface, accelerate to a set speed, then apply brakes and measure the distance from the point of braking to where it stops.

Question 2: Identify two safety precautions that should be taken when conducting practical experiments on stopping distance.

Answer: Wear protective gear and conduct experiments in a safe, controlled environment.

Question 1: A car travelling at 30 m/s has a total stopping distance of 75 metres. If the driver’s reaction time causes a 15-metre thinking distance, what is the braking distance?

Answer: 60 metres

Question 2: In cold and wet weather, how does the stopping distance of a vehicle change? Explain the reasons.

Answer: Stopping distance increases because wet and icy roads reduce tyre grip, making braking less effective and increasing the distance needed to stop safely.

Question 3: Discuss how modern technology, such as anti-lock braking systems (ABS), helps to reduce stopping distances and improve safety.

Answer: ABS prevents wheel lock-up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control and apply maximum braking force without skidding, thereby reducing stopping distances especially on slippery surfaces.