Final answer:
The statement is FALSE; with anti-lock brakes, you should not pump the brakes but rather press firmly and hold them. Understanding the transition from kinetic to static friction helps explain why easing off the brake pedal leads to a smoother stop. Some vehicles have power brakes with a motorized pump that assists the braking effort.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer is b. FALSE. If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), you should not apply a quick pumping motion to your brakes when you start to skid. Instead, the proper technique is to press down firmly on the brake pedal and hold it there. The ABS system will automatically pump the brakes for you to prevent the wheels from locking up, which allows you to maintain steering control during a skid.
As for learning to drive and the relationship between static and kinetic friction, when you apply the brakes and the car begins to slow down, kinetic friction is in effect between the tires and the road. As the car slows down, it transitions from kinetic friction (sliding) to static friction (not sliding). The static friction is what ultimately brings the car to a stop. If you do not let up slightly on the brake pedal just before stopping, the kinetic friction abruptly transitions to static friction, causing the car to stop.