Question

Assume there is a two-way north-south road, where the right lane got blocked. While State police is in the process of fixing it, all the traffic have to use only one lane to go through. This turns the remaining lane into a critical section, since only one direction can be used at a time. For example, a northbound vehicle can go through this area only when there are no vehicles coming from the north as this vehicle arrives at the scene. As the following figure shows, such a vehicle cannot go through, because of the red light as one car is coming through from the north. Same for the southbound vehicle.

Answer 1

The question involves Physics as it relates to traffic flow, vehicle motion, and the implementation of traffic signals for road safety and traffic regulation. The use of traffic signals can effectively control vehicle speeds and ensure pedestrian safety, particularly in areas with high foot traffic.

Step-by-step explanation:

The subject matter of the question concerns the regulation of traffic and the role of traffic signals in managing the flow of vehicles and ensuring pedestrian safety. When a road is narrowed due to construction or other obstruction, it creates a situation where a remaining lane becomes a 'critical section' allowing only one direction of traffic flow at a time.

Traffic signals are crucial in such scenarios to control the speed of vehicles and facilitate safe crossing for pedestrians. They also help in reducing the number of accidents, particularly in busy intersections near campuses where many pedestrians need to cross. In addition to safety, traffic signals can influence the motion of vehicles which must adhere to rules, such as stopping at a red light, thereby creating a structured and predictable traffic environment.

In emergencies, exceptions to traffic rules might be morally justifiable, like in the hypothetical situation where a pregnant woman needs to reach a hospital quickly. However, under normal conditions, adhering to traffic signals is paramount for the safety and efficiency of transportation systems.