Final answer:
The best way to take a curve with a vehicle is to slow down before entering the curve for better control and reduced risk of an accident. The correct answer is option c.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question relates to the physics of negotiating a curve with a vehicle, particularly the best way to take a curve. The options suggest different ways of handling a curve, but the correct approach, based on the principles of physics and road safety, is to slow down before entering the curve. This allows the driver to have more control over the vehicle and reduces the risk of skidding or losing traction.
Race car drivers, as mentioned in the context provided, can navigate curves at higher speeds successfully due to racetracks often featuring steeply banked curves. These banked curves allow for a higher safe speed because the slope of the curve counteracts the lateral force trying to push the car outwards, enabling it to turn without additional frictional force from the tires. However, for everyday driving on typical roads, which usually are not as steeply banked as racetracks, the best practice is to reduce speed before entering a curve to maintain control.
It is important to understand the concept of an 'ideally banked curve', where the curve's degree of banking allows a vehicle to navigate the turn at a specific speed without relying on extra friction. This is largely theoretical and does not often apply to public roadways, which cater to a wide range of vehicles and speeds.
The correct option in the final answer is: c. Slow down before entering the curve.