Final answer:
The required stopping distance for a snowmobile is determined by three factors: the rider's speed, reaction time to an event that necessitates stopping, and the braking distance under current conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The three important factors in determining the required stopping distance for your snowmobile are speed, reaction time, and braking distance. The stopping distance is the total length needed for a snowmobile to come to a full stop, which consists of the distance covered from the moment a rider perceives a need to stop (reaction time), to the point when the brakes are fully applied (braking distance).
When calculating the stopping distance, we consider the vehicle's initial speed, the time it takes for the driver to react, typically about 0.500 seconds, and the distance the vehicle will travel in that reaction time at a constant speed. Finally, we calculate the distance it takes for the snowmobile to stop once braking begins. Both dry and wet conditions can impact the braking distance, which is an important consideration for safety.
Overall, understanding these variables helps snowmobile drivers make more informed decisions when traveling at certain speeds and in variable environmental conditions, ensuring a safer ride.