This diagram covers Stopping Distance = Thinking + Braking 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 2 of 12 in this topic. Focus on the labels, the relationships between parts, and the explanation that turns the diagram into an exam-ready answer.
📊 Stopping Distance = Thinking + Braking
Figure 1: Stopping distance = thinking distance + braking distance
KEY INSIGHT: Thinking distance doubles when speed doubles (proportional to v). Braking distance QUADRUPLES when speed doubles (proportional to v²). This is why speeding is so dangerous!
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.