2.1. Introduction

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a horizontal curve?

   Hint

   Think about turning points in a road.

2. 2.

   What is the purpose of super-elevation?

   Hint

   Consider how vehicles navigate curves.

3. 3.

   What is the primary role of curves in road design?

   • To change direction
   • To increase speed
   • To decrease traffic

   Hint

   Think about how roads would look with only straight lines.

4. 4.

   True or False: Vertical curves only change the direction of the road.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall the definitions of vertical and horizontal curves.

5. 5.

   Design a simple horizontal curve connecting two straight roads. Determine the necessary super-elevation for a vehicle traveling at 80 km/h.

   Hint

   Refer to the formulas discussed in the section.

6. 6.

   Analyze the impact of a poorly designed vertical curve on vehicle dynamics and passenger comfort.

   Hint

   Consider the forces acting on vehicles on slopes.