What impact does driving speed have on stopping power requirements?

The correct choice indicates that higher speeds require more stopping power, which is true based on the principles of physics that govern vehicle dynamics. As a vehicle increases in speed, its momentum also increases, which means that more force is needed to bring it to a stop. This relationship is due to the formula for kinetic energy, which states that energy increases with the square of the velocity. Consequently, when a vehicle is traveling at a higher speed, the brakes must produce greater force to overcome this increased momentum effectively.

In practical terms, this means that drivers need to account for their speed when assessing the distance required to stop their vehicle safely. This understanding is crucial for safe driving, particularly in scenarios where quick stopping is necessary, such as in adverse conditions or when unexpected obstacles appear. It underscores the importance of maintaining a safe following distance and adjusting driving behavior according to speed to ensure adequate stopping power is available when needed.