Factors Affecting Thinking Distance & Reaction Time (AQA GCSE Physics): Flashcards

Stopping distance increases

Thinking distance increases proportionally; braking distance increases at a higher rate

Increases at same rate as speed (proportionally)

Reaction time constant, but more distance covered at higher speed

Braking distance increases

More speed = more KE, so more work needed to stop

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

KE increases at higher rate than speed (speed is squared)

More work needed to transfer greater KE (constant braking force)

$W = Fs$

Compare stopping distances of different vehicles at specific speeds