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Difficulty: EasyStopping Distances

According to the official UK Highway Code, what is the total stopping distance in metres for a car travelling at 40 mph40\text{ mph} on a dry, well-maintained road?

Answer: 36 metres

Answer

The total stopping distance at 40 mph40\text{ mph} is 36 metres36\text{ metres} (120 feet120\text{ feet}).
At 40 mph40\text{ mph}, a vehicle travels 12 metres12\text{ metres} during the driver's reaction time (thinking distance) and an additional 24 metres24\text{ metres} once the brakes are applied (braking distance) under normal dry conditions. Combining these gives a total stopping distance of 36 metres36\text{ metres} (120 feet120\text{ feet}).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Determine the thinking distance at 40 mph40\text{ mph}
12 metres12\text{ metres}
Under Highway Code guidelines, thinking distance in metres at 40 mph40\text{ mph} is 12 metres12\text{ metres}.
2
Determine the braking distance at 40 mph40\text{ mph}
24 metres24\text{ metres}
Under Highway Code guidelines, braking distance on a dry road at 40 mph40\text{ mph} is 24 metres24\text{ metres}.
3
Add the thinking distance and braking distance together
12 m+24 m=36 metres12\text{ m} + 24\text{ m} = 36\text{ metres}
Total stopping distance is defined as the sum of thinking distance and braking distance.

Key Concept

Total stopping distance equals thinking distance plus braking distance as specified in the Highway Code.
Estimated Time:45s
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Stopping Distances

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