Tar in road pavement often rises to the surface of the road in very hot weather. Spots where the tar bleeds:
Answers
Are very slippery.
Offer the same amount of traction as the rest of the roadway.
Offer more traction than the rest of the roadway.
Will stop a vehicle.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: Are very slippery.
Explanation:
Tar bleeding occurs when the bitumen (tar) in the asphalt mixture used for road paving rises to the surface due to high temperatures. This phenomenon is more common during hot weather, especially in regions where summer temperatures can reach high levels. When the sun heats up the road surface, the bitumen softens and becomes more fluid, causing it to migrate upward to the top of the pavement. This can create visible black patches or shiny spots on the surface of the road, which are often referred to as “tar spots.”
The reason these tar spots are slippery is because the tar forms a sticky, oily film on the surface, which reduces the friction between the road and the tires of vehicles. When a vehicle’s tires encounter these spots, they can lose traction, which increases the risk of skidding, particularly when turning or braking. This is especially dangerous in hot weather when vehicles are already traveling at higher speeds. The slippery nature of tar bleeding makes the affected areas of the road hazardous, and drivers must exercise caution when driving over these spots.
In contrast, areas of the road that do not have tar bleeding typically provide more consistent traction, allowing for better vehicle control. If tar bleeding is significant, road authorities may apply surface treatments or repairs to mitigate the risk, such as resurfacing the road or using specialized materials designed to prevent excessive bleeding of bitumen.
In conclusion, tar spots on the road are very slippery and present a safety hazard for drivers, especially in warm climates during the summer months.