Final Answer:
The factors that affect the distance it takes for a car to stop include: 1) friction between the tires and the road, 2) the weight of the car, 3) the speed of the car, and 4) the condition of the brakes.
Explanation:
When a car skids to a stop, several factors influence the distance it travels before coming to a halt. Firstly, the friction between the tires and the road plays a pivotal role. This friction determines how effectively the car can convert its kinetic energy into heat through the brakes. The greater the friction, the shorter the stopping distance.
Secondly, the weight of the car affects the stopping distance. Heavier cars possess more inertia, requiring increased force from the brakes to halt them. This makes lighter cars generally stop in a shorter distance compared to heavier ones.
Moreover, the car's speed significantly impacts stopping distance. The momentum of a faster-moving vehicle demands more time and distance to reduce speed due to higher kinetic energy. Finally, the condition of the brakes is crucial. Worn-out or faulty brakes compromise the car's ability to decelerate effectively, elongating the stopping distance.
These factors collectively contribute to the calculation of stopping distance, often expressed as where d=
/2μg is the stopping distance, v is the initial velocity, μ is the coefficient of friction between the tires and the road, and g is the acceleration due to gravity. Understanding how these variables interact helps in comprehending the complex dynamics behind a car's stopping capabilities.