Final answer:
Roads and highways are typically most slippery when the surface is covered in ice or when there is a layer of water on the road. Slick conditions arise due to a decrease in friction between the tires and the road, making it difficult for vehicles to grip the road. Specialized tires with treads can increase friction and improve traction on slippery surfaces.
Step-by-step explanation:
Roads and highways are typically most slippery when the surface is covered in ice or when there is a layer of water on the road. The slickness is due to a decrease in friction between the tires and the road. When there is less friction, it becomes more difficult for the tires to grip the road, resulting in slippery conditions.
For example, imagine walking on a polished floor without any traction on your shoes. The lack of friction between your shoes and the floor makes it difficult to maintain stability because there is no grip or resistance to movement. The same principle applies to vehicles on icy or wet roads.
To increase friction and improve traction on slippery surfaces, vehicles often use specialized tires with treads that can better grip the road. These tires are designed to cut through snow, ice, or water and provide more contact with the road surface, which helps to improve traction and control.