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Figure 12 is a speed limit sign from a European motorway - Edexcel - GCSE Physics Combined Science - Question 6 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 6
Figure 12 is a speed limit sign from a European motorway. The speeds shown are in km/h (kilometres per hour). (i) The sign tells drivers to drive at a slower sp... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Figure 12 is a speed limit sign from a European motorway - Edexcel - GCSE Physics Combined Science - Question 6 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain why it is safer for drivers to drive at a slower speed in wet weather.
Answer
Driving at a slower speed in wet weather is safer for several reasons. First, wet roads have less friction between the tires and the surface, which leads to decreased grip. This condition increases the risk of losing control of the vehicle. Second, slower speeds result in shorter braking distances, allowing for better stopping capability in case of emergencies. Finally, wet weather often reduces visibility, making it more challenging to react promptly to obstacles or changes in traffic conditions.
Step 2
Show that a speed of 31 m/s is less than a speed of 130 km/h.
Answer
To compare the two speeds, we need to convert 130 km/h into meters per second.
Since 1 km = 1000 meters and 1 hour = 3600 seconds, we can convert 130 km/h as follows:
Now, compare 31 m/s and 36.11 m/s. Since 31 m/s < 36.11 m/s, we conclude that 31 m/s is less than a speed of 130 km/h.