Final answer:
A skid occurs when the rear wheel locks when trying to stop quickly. It happens when the tires lose traction with the road surface, causing a loss of control. Factors like road conditions, tire quality, and excessive speed can increase the likelihood of a skid.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the rear wheel locks when trying to stop quickly, it is known as a skid. This occurs when the tires lose traction with the road surface, leading to a loss of control over the vehicle. In physics, the coefficient of friction plays a crucial role in determining whether a skid will occur or not.
Imagine a car traveling at high speed and the driver applies the brakes suddenly. The brakes exert a force on the wheels, trying to slow them down. However, if the force of friction between the wheels and the road is not strong enough to counteract the rotational motion, the wheels can lock and slide along the road surface, resulting in a skid.
Factors that can increase the likelihood of a skid include wet or icy road conditions, worn-out tires, and excessive speed. To prevent skidding, drivers are advised to maintain proper tire pressure, drive at a safe speed, and apply the brakes gradually and evenly.