How does speed affect stopping distance?

Higher speeds increase stopping distances due to the fundamental physics of motion and the increased kinetic energy of a vehicle. When a vehicle is moving at a higher speed, it has more kinetic energy, which translates into greater momentum. In order to bring the vehicle to a complete stop, this momentum must be overcome by friction between the tires and the road surface.

As speed increases, the distance required for the vehicle to stop exponentially increases because the time taken to react and the force needed to stop the vehicle also become greater. This means that at higher speeds, a driver will need to apply the brakes much sooner to avoid an accident, as the stopping distance will be longer.

Additionally, factors such as road conditions, vehicle weight, and tire quality can also affect stopping distance, but the primary factor at play here is the speed of the vehicle itself. Therefore, understanding the relationship between speed and stopping distance is crucial for safe driving practices.