When making a turn, you must __ your speed.
Answers
Increase
Maintain
Vary
Reduce
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is Reduce.
When making a turn, reducing your speed is crucial for maintaining control of your vehicle and ensuring safety. Here’s a detailed explanation:
1. Control and Stability:
Turning at high speeds can cause your vehicle to lose traction, increasing the risk of skidding or losing control. When you reduce speed before or during a turn, the vehicle maintains better stability, making it easier to steer and stay on your intended path. High speeds also make it harder to react to unexpected obstacles or conditions, such as wet or slippery road surfaces.
2. Centripetal Force:
When a vehicle turns, it must overcome the inertia of moving in a straight line. The force that keeps the vehicle on its curved path is called centripetal force. This force increases with the speed of the vehicle. The faster you go, the more force is needed to keep you turning safely. By reducing your speed, you decrease the amount of centripetal force needed, making it easier for the vehicle to stay on the road without sliding or losing control.
3. Stopping Distance:
Reducing speed before a turn can also help you anticipate the turn better, allowing you to slow down further if necessary and avoid any potential collisions. In the event of an emergency, a lower speed allows you to stop more quickly, giving you more time to react and avoid accidents.
4. Road Conditions:
When roads are wet, icy, or uneven, the friction between your tires and the road surface decreases. This reduces your ability to grip the road, which means you need to reduce speed even more to prevent the vehicle from slipping or skidding while turning.
In summary, reducing speed when making a turn enhances vehicle control, decreases the risk of accidents, and ensures better handling, especially on curved roads, in adverse conditions, or while navigating tight turns.