Question

In order to stop a car in shortest distance on a horizontal road, one should:

• A. apply the brakes very hard so that the wheels stop rotating.
• B. apply the brakes hard enough to just prevent slipping.
• C. pump the brakes (press and release).
• D. shut the engine off and not apply brakes.

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

apply the brakes hard enough to just prevent slipping.

If the brakes are applied only to stop wheels rotating, in a great speed, there is a chance of skidding or slipping. So to stop in car in shortest distance, the car should be stopped from slipping. Pumping brakes will make the car move slowly and stopping engine will not help to stop the car for a long time because of inertia of the car.