Book 3, Question 23
Why Do Cars Have Headlights?
Headlights throw a beam of light, so the driver can see the road, signs, and animals after dark. They also warn other people that you are coming. Lights let you see the road, and they let the road see you!
From the book
Page from A Million Whys Book 3
More fun facts
- LED headlights shine a whiter, more focused and brighter beam than the halogen lamps in older cars.
- Some new cars can dip their headlights by themselves when they detect a car coming the other way.
- All headlights must meet international standards, so drivers can see clearly without dazzling other drivers.
- Headlight glare is more likely when cars are going uphill or around a bend.
- Scientists have tested smart headlights that can light the road while avoiding falling rain and snow.
- Smart headlights can also spot oncoming cars and turn off the light rays aimed at those drivers.
Sources: BBC, BBC, Scientific American
Questions kids ask
Why do oncoming headlights look so bright?
Headlights are aimed to light the road ahead. On hills and bends, the beam is more likely to shine into other drivers' eyes, which causes glare.