Describe the effect of a vehicle's load on its stopping distance.

The correct answer highlights that a heavier load increases stopping distance significantly. When a vehicle is loaded with more weight, it requires more distance to come to a complete stop. This is due to the principles of physics, specifically inertia. Heavier vehicles have more momentum, which means they are harder to stop compared to lighter vehicles.

When brakes are applied, the increased mass of the vehicle means that more force and time are needed for the brakes to slow the vehicle down effectively. Additionally, the increased load can affect the vehicle's braking system, as the brakes may have to work harder to overcome the momentum of the heavier vehicle.

Furthermore, a heavier load can influence tire grip on the road surface. If the tires are not able to maintain adequate contact due to the weight, this can also lead to increased stopping distances. Thus, understanding the relationship between vehicle load and stopping distance is crucial for safe driving practices, especially under varying conditions such as wet or icy roads where extra stopping distance can be critical.