Dry asphalt 1 wet asphalt 0.5 black ice 0.1 coefficient of friction
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
Black ice has the lowest coefficient of friction: 0.1
Explanation
The coefficient of friction is a measure of how much resistance exists between two surfaces when they slide against each other. It is a unitless number that typically ranges from 0 (no friction) to 1 (very high friction). In the context of roads and driving, this value is crucial in determining how well tires can grip the surface.
Dry asphalt has a coefficient of friction of 1. This means it provides a high level of traction for vehicles. Tires grip the surface effectively, allowing for safer acceleration, braking, and turning. This is why driving on dry roads is considered the safest under normal conditions.
Wet asphalt has a lower coefficient of friction, around 0.5. Water reduces the contact between the tires and the road, cutting the available grip in half compared to dry conditions. This reduced friction can lead to longer braking distances and a higher risk of skidding or hydroplaning, especially at high speeds or during sudden maneuvers.
Black ice has the lowest coefficient of friction at 0.1. Black ice is a thin, nearly invisible layer of ice that forms on roadways, usually under cold and humid conditions. Because of its transparency and similarity in appearance to the road surface, drivers often do not realize they are driving over it. With such a low friction value, tires barely grip the surface, making it extremely dangerous. Vehicles can slide uncontrollably even at low speeds, and braking becomes largely ineffective.
In summary, the lower the coefficient of friction, the more dangerous the driving conditions become. Dry asphalt offers the most grip, wet asphalt is more hazardous, and black ice presents the greatest risk due to its extremely low friction. Drivers should adjust speed and following distance based on road conditions to maintain safety
