This memory aid covers Memory Aid within Stopping Distances for GCSE Physics. Revise Stopping Distances in Forces for GCSE Physics with 13 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 8 of 12 in this topic. Use it for quick recall, then test yourself straight afterwards so the memory aid becomes usable in an answer.
Topic position
Section 8 of 12
Practice
13 questions
Recall
5 flashcards
🧠 Memory Aid
Thinking vs Braking — "Driver vs Car":
Thinking distance is all about the DRIVER — their reaction time, whether they're tired, drunk, or distracted.
Braking distance is all about the CAR and ROAD — tyre grip, brake quality, road surface, vehicle mass.
Speed and distance relationship:
- Thinking distance ∝ v (speed doubles → thinking distance doubles) — linear relationship
- Braking distance ∝ v² (speed doubles → braking distance ×4) — squared relationship
Memory trick: "Thinking is T (linear), Braking is B (bigger — squared)"