Final answer:
The statement that vehicle balance refers to the distribution of the weight of the vehicle on the tires as they meet the ground is true, as it is essential for proper handling and stability during maneuvers.
Step-by-step explanation:
True or False: Vehicle balance refers to the distribution of the weight of the vehicle on the tires as they meet the ground. The answer to this statement is True. Vehicle balance is indeed about how the weight of a vehicle is distributed across its tires, ensuring that the vehicle handles properly and maintains stability as it maneuvers. An uneven distribution can lead to poor handling and even loss of control.
For example, if a car has a wheelbase of 2.5 meters and 52% of its weight is on the front wheels, the center of mass (CM) of the car would need to be calculated to determine its position in relation to the rear axle. Proper weight distribution is also crucial when a vehicle turns; for instance, a bicycle must lean at the correct angle during a turn to keep the force exerted by the ground on a line with the center of gravity of the system. Similarly, a car in dynamic equilibrium, moving at a constant velocity, experiences a balance of forces where the weight is equally supported by the tires, and any applied force is counteracted by another force, like air friction.