Delaware Driver Education State Practice Test

What type of glass is required for windshields and windows in vehicles?

1. Regular glass

2. Polycarbonate glass

3. Acrylic glass

4. Automotive safety glass

The correct answer is: Automotive safety glass

Automotive safety glass is specifically designed to enhance passenger safety in vehicles. It is made using processes like lamination or tempering, which provide several critical benefits. For instance, laminated glass consists of two or more layers of glass with a tough interlayer, usually made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), that holds the layers together even when shattered. This significantly reduces the risk of injury from flying glass shards and helps maintain the integrity of the window structure, which is essential during collisions. Additionally, automotive safety glass is designed to withstand high impact and temperature changes, making it suitable for the varied conditions a vehicle may face. The use of this type of glass ensures that drivers and passengers are better protected, fulfilling safety regulations and standards set by authorities. Other types of glass, such as regular glass, polycarbonate, or acrylic glass, do not meet the necessary impact resistance and safety specifications required for automotive use, placing the occupants at greater risk should an accident occur. Thus, the specific properties and safety benefits of automotive safety glass make it the correct choice for vehicle windshields and windows.