Physics A-Level
Thinking distance
What Thinking distance means in Physics A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Thinking distance
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Thinking distance in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
The distance travelled during the driver's reaction time, before the brakes are applied; it equals speed multiplied by reaction time.
Topics that use Thinking distance
- Linear motion (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Acceleration due to gravity
- Braking distance
- Conservation of momentum
- Constant acceleration equations
- Free fall in a uniform gravitational field
- Reaction time
- Sign conventions and units
- Stopping distance
Using Thinking distance in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
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