Final answer:
The stopping distance of a vehicle is determined by the driver reaction time, perception distance, and braking distance. The Driver reaction time is typically around 0.500 seconds, while Perception distance is the distance traveled during this time, and Braking distance is the distance it takes to stop the vehicle after brakes are applied.
Step-by-step explanation:
The factors that determine the stopping distance of a vehicle include driver reaction time (the time it takes you to recognize a hazard), perception distance (the distance your vehicle travels between the time you recognize a problem and the time you apply the brakes), and braking distance (the distance your car travels after you apply the brakes).
To calculate the total stopping distance, we need to know each of these components:
- Driver reaction time: This is how quickly a driver reacts to a hazard before beginning to brake. It's often assumed to be around 0.500 seconds, during which the car continues at the initial velocity.
- Perception distance: This is the distance traveled during the driver's reaction time. Assuming the car moves at a constant speed during this time, this distance can be found using the initial velocity.
- Braking distance: Once the driver applies the brakes, the braking distance depends on factors like road conditions, vehicle conditions, and speed. For this scenario, it's calculated based on the vehicle braking on dry or wet pavement from an initial velocity of 30.0 m/s.
For example, if a car travels with an initial velocity of 30.0 m/s, and it takes the driver 0.500 seconds to react (Driver reaction time), the car would cover a specific distance during that time (Perception distance). After the brakes are applied, the braking force will cause the vehicle to decelerate to a stop over the Braking distance.
To determine the total stopping distance, simply add the perception distance and the braking distance. It is important to consider that the stopping distance will be longer if the road is wet, as this increases the braking distance required for the vehicle to come to a complete halt.