Final answer:
A longer wheelbase contributes to increased stability in a vehicle by distributing weight over a larger area and lowering the center of gravity. Crumple zones in cars protect passengers by extending the impact duration, thus lowering the force experienced per unit time during a collision.
Step-by-step explanation:
The wheelbase of a vehicle and its stability falls under the subject of Physics. A longer wheelbase between the front wheels and the rear wheels generally results in increased stability of the vehicle. This is because the longer distance creates a larger area over which the vehicle's weight is distributed, thereby lowering the center of gravity and making it less likely for the vehicle to tip over during turns or in high winds. In contrast to improved maneuverability, this stability can impede sharp turning, as the vehicle will require a wider radius to turn.
Regarding crumple zones in vehicles, their main purpose is to absorb the energy of a collision. Option (a), which states that it reduces injury to the passengers by increasing the time of impact, is correct. When parts of a car are designed to crumple or collapse, the duration of the impact is effectively extended, which reduces the force experienced by the passengers per unit time. This controlled deformation also results in reducing the overall kinetic energy that needs to be absorbed by the passengers themselves, who are thereby better protected during the event of a crash.