Thinking distance = speed × reaction time
Factors that INCREASE reaction time:
- Tiredness — slower brain processing
- Alcohol — impairs judgment and reactions
- Drugs (legal and illegal) — various effects on brain
- Distractions — phone, passengers, eating
- Age — older drivers typically react slower
- Poor visibility — takes longer to recognise hazard
Factors that INCREASE thinking distance:
- Higher speed — travel further during same reaction time
- All the factors above (via increased reaction time)
This key facts covers Factors Affecting THINKING Distance within Stopping Distances for GCSE Physics. Revise Stopping Distances in Forces for GCSE Physics with 15 exam-style questions and 5 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 3 of 12 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for Stopping Distances
What is the correct definition of stopping distance?
Explain why a car travelling at higher speed has a greater braking distance than a car travelling at lower speed, assuming the same braking force.