Under normal driving conditions, what kind of friction helps to slow your vehicle?

The correct answer is static friction, which is the friction that exists between two surfaces that are not moving relative to each other. When a vehicle is in motion, the tires maintain contact with the road surface, creating static friction that allows the vehicle to decelerate effectively when brakes are applied. This type of friction is crucial for maintaining control while slowing down or coming to a stop.

Static friction enables the tires to grip the road without slipping, providing the necessary force to slow down or stop the vehicle smoothly. It is essential for safe driving, especially in various weather conditions, as it helps prevent skidding and loss of control. While kinetic friction occurs when objects are sliding against each other, it does not contribute to slowing down in the same effective manner as static friction when the vehicle is slowing down under normal driving conditions.