Stopping Distances (AQA GCSE Physics Combined Science): Flashcards

Distance from when danger appears until car completely stops

Thinking distance + braking distance

Distance travelled while driver reacts to danger

Distance travelled while slowing after brakes applied

Directly proportional - doubles if speed doubles

Proportional to speed squared ($v^2$)

Increases by 4 times (quadruples)

Tiredness, distractions, alcohol, drugs, age

Wet/icy roads, worn tyres/brakes, heavy loads, slopes

Heat (through friction)

$KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2$

Because kinetic energy depends on $v^2$

$\text{braking distance} \propto v^2$