GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Stopping Distance Calculations

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Forces Forces and motion

Stopping Distance Calculations

4:40 Stopping Distance
Spec 4.5.6.3.1
Previous Speed from Distance-Time Graphs Next Stopping Distance Values
  • Stopping distance is the sum of thinking and braking distances.
  • Thinking distance is the distance traveled between the appearance of danger and the application of brakes.
  • Braking distance is the distance the car travels while decelerating after brakes are applied.
  • Stopping distance = Thinking distance + Braking distance.
  • Example problem: A driver at 20 m/s sees traffic lights 40 meters away turn red, reacts in 0.8 seconds, and has a braking distance of 25 meters.
  • Calculate thinking distance using speed and reaction time: 20 m/s * 0.8 s = 16 meters.
  • Total stopping distance = 16 meters (thinking) + 25 meters (braking) = 41 meters.
  • Compare stopping distance to the distance to the lights (40 meters).
  • Conclusion: The car stops after the lights, as 41 meters > 40 meters.

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