This introduction covers The Hidden Danger of Speed 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 1 of 12 in this topic. Use this introduction to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
📖 The Hidden Danger of Speed
At 30 mph, a car needs about 23 metres to stop. At 60 mph — just double the speed — it needs about 73 metres! That's more than THREE times the distance. Why? Because thinking distance doubles (you travel twice as far during reaction time), AND braking distance QUADRUPLES (kinetic energy is proportional to v²). This is why speed limits exist near schools — the physics of stopping makes high speeds deadly.
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.
Quick recall flashcards
🧠 Factors Affecting THINKING Distance
Tiredness — slower brain processing
🧠 Factors Affecting THINKING Distance
Alcohol — impairs judgment and reactions