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There is no reason to slow down on curves of more than 30 degrees?

A. True
B. False

User Tim Booker
by
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1 Answer

6 votes

Final answer:

The statement is false. The sharpness of a curve increases the need for centripetal force, which is provided by tire friction, and slowing down helps maintain control and safety on such curves.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement 'There is no reason to slow down on curves of more than 30 degrees' is false. When a vehicle goes around a curve, it is subject to centripetal force that pulls it towards the center of the curve. The sharper the curve (greater than 30 degrees), the more centripetal force is needed to keep the vehicle on its path without skidding outward due to inertia.

Tire friction plays a crucial part in providing this force. However, if the curve is taken too fast, the available friction may not be enough, causing the vehicle to lose traction and potentially leading to an accident. Banked curves can allow a vehicle to take the turn at higher speeds by using the angle of the banking to provide some of the necessary centripetal force, reducing reliance on tire friction alone.

This concept is applied to race tracks for cars and bikes. Nevertheless, for a standard road curve, reducing speed is generally necessary for safe navigation, especially if the road conditions are not ideal (e.g., wet or icy) which can further reduce friction.

User Karel Macek
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8.2k points