# During a crash test, a car travelling at high speed comes to a sudden stop. Explain how an airbag reduces the risk of serious injury to the driver during this type of collision.

> Eduqas GCSE Physics — 4.3 Safety in public transport · Explain · 4 marks

> Modern cars are fitted with airbags that inflate very rapidly when sensors detect a sudden deceleration.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. The airbag inflates and acts as a cushion between the driver and the steering wheel / dashboard
2. The airbag increases the time over which the driver decelerates / comes to a stop
3. A longer stopping time means the force acting on the driver is reduced (for the same change in momentum)
4. A smaller force on the driver means less risk of serious injury / internal injuries / head or chest injuries

## Key terms

- [airbag](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/airbag)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Physics](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/during-a-crash-test-a-car-6c499d6e) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.