Roads freeze quickly when they are:
Answers
Flat.
Curvy.
In the sun.
Shaded.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Correct Answer: Shaded
Roads freeze quickly when they are shaded because they do not receive direct sunlight, which is critical for warming the surface and melting any accumulated frost, snow, or ice. This phenomenon is particularly common in areas surrounded by trees, buildings, or mountains that block sunlight for extended periods, especially during the winter months.
When a road is shaded, the surface temperature remains lower than roads exposed to sunlight. Even during the daytime, shaded areas may stay below freezing, causing moisture to freeze rapidly. At night, when temperatures drop further, shaded roads are even more prone to freezing because there is no heat retention from sunlight earlier in the day.
In contrast, roads exposed to the sun absorb heat, which helps delay or prevent freezing. This heat absorption can raise the surface temperature above freezing even when the ambient air temperature is cold, making sunny roads safer under the same conditions.
Shaded areas are particularly hazardous in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are at their lowest. Additionally, shaded spots often experience “black ice,” a thin, transparent layer of ice that blends with the road surface, making it nearly invisible to drivers and increasing the risk of accidents.
Other factors, such as the road’s material, altitude, and nearby water sources, can influence freezing, but shading plays a dominant role in creating cold spots. For this reason, drivers are advised to exercise caution in shaded areas, especially on bridges, overpasses, and mountain roads, where shade and cold air combine to create ideal conditions for freezing. Recognizing and understanding shaded roads’ risks can help prevent accidents and ensure safer travel during winter.