Answer :
Final answer:
Empty trucks have less traction than loaded trucks because there is less weight to push the tires against the road, resulting in less friction and grip. When a trailer bounces up and down slowly, it is likely empty, as a loaded trailer would have less bounce due to more weight dampening the suspension system. The correct option is c. less traction
Explanation:
The question you've asked pertains to the concept of traction, which is an important aspect of physics, particularly when discussing the behavior of vehicles in motion. Empty trucks actually have less traction than loaded trucks because they have less weight pushing down on the tires, which results in less grip or friction between the tires and the road.
When a trailer observes as bouncing up and down slowly on a highway, it indicates that the trailer is most likely nearly empty. This is because a heavily loaded trailer would have more weight, which would lead to more dampening of the trailer's suspension system, resulting in less bouncing. On the other hand, an empty or lightly loaded trailer does not have sufficient weight to prevent the bouncing caused by imperfections in the road or by the movement of the truck itself.
In summary, a heavier load in a truck provides more downward force, which increases the friction between the tires and the road surface, thereby increasing traction. An empty truck, with its lack of sufficient downward force, fails to achieve as much traction and, thus, is more prone to issues such as reduced handling and increased susceptibility to windy conditions or slick surfaces.
