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Difficulty: EasyWet Weather and Aquaplaning

What causes a car to aquaplane on a wet road surface?

  1. A
    Harsh and sudden braking locking the wheels on a slippery road
  2. A layer of water building up between the tyres and the road surfaceAnswer
  3. C
    Tyres having deeper tread grooves than the legal minimum requirement
  4. D
    Failing to leave a four-second gap behind the vehicle in front

Answer

A layer of water building up between the tyres and the road surface
Aquaplaning occurs when a layer of surface water builds up between the tyres and the road surface faster than the tyre tread grooves can disperse it. This creates a cushion of water that lifts the tyres off the road, resulting in a loss of grip, steering, and braking control.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the physical mechanism of aquaplaning in wet conditions
Water accumulates under the tyres faster than the tread can clear it
When driving through standing water at speed, water pressure builds in front of and under the tyres
2
Determine the consequence on tyre-to-road contact
The tyres ride up on a cushion of water and lose direct contact with the road
This loss of road contact eliminates traction, steering control, and braking effectiveness

Key Concept

Aquaplaning occurs when surface water builds up between the tyres and the road surface, breaking direct tyre contact.
Estimated Time:30s
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Topics

Wet Weather and Aquaplaning

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