Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: 12 metres
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Braking distance depends primarily on initial speed and available longitudinal friction. For quick checks, standard values are tabulated for typical dry conditions and effective brakes.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Using uniform deceleration, braking distance s = v^2 / (2 * g * f). Adopting f ≈ 0.3–0.35 gives conservative distances commonly cited in design aids for low speeds.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Using highway units: s ≈ V^2 / (254 * f) = 30^2 / (254 * 0.30) ≈ 900 / 76.2 ≈ 11.8 m, consistent with the above.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
10 m is feasible but less conservative; 15 m and 18 m are excessive for the assumed conditions.
Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to include reaction distance in full SSD; using wet or icy friction without adjusting the estimate.
Final Answer:
12 metres
Discussion & Comments