Final answer:
Braking distance is the space required to slow a vehicle and bring it to a safe stop after pressing the brakes. It depends on road conditions, driver reaction time, and initial speed of the vehicle. Understanding braking distance is crucial for safe driving.
Step-by-step explanation:
Braking distance is the amount of space required to slow a vehicle and bring it to a safe stop after pressing the brakes. It depends on road conditions, driver reaction time, and the initial speed of the vehicle.
For example, the braking distances for dry and wet pavement, calculated for a car initially traveling at 30.0 m/s. The total distance traveled from the point where the driver first sees a red light, assuming a 0.500 s reaction time, is also shown.
Understanding braking distance is crucial for safe driving, as it helps drivers anticipate and adjust their speed accordingly to maintain a safe stopping distance.