Final answer:
Hydroplaning occurs at higher speeds, starting at around 35 mph, and risk increases with speed. On wet pavement, a longer stopping distance is needed due to reduced traction. It's essential to maintain safe speeds and consider reaction times to prevent hydroplaning.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hydroplaning typically occurs at higher speeds because the water pressure in front of the tire builds up faster than it can be pushed out of the way. The risk of hydroplaning can begin at speeds as low as 35 miles per hour (mph) or 56 kilometers per hour (km/h), but it becomes much more dangerous as speeds increase beyond that. Factors that increase the risk of hydroplaning include vehicle speed, tire tread depth, tire inflation, water depth, and the quality of the road surface. For example, the stopping distances on wet pavement will be longer compared to dry conditions. When a car is moving at 30.0 m/s (approximately 108 km/h or 67 mph), and assuming a deceleration rate of 5.00 m/s² on a wet pavement, the car will require a greater distance to come to a full stop. Driver reaction time also contributes significantly to the total stopping distance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining appropriate speeds, especially under wet conditions to avoid hydroplaning and ensure safety on the road.