How do modern airbag systems adapt to an impact?

Modern airbag systems are designed to enhance passenger safety by adapting to the specific conditions of a car crash. The correct choice is that they adapt based on impact severity and passenger characteristics. This means that these systems assess the force of the impact and the positioning of occupants in the vehicle, which allows them to deploy in a manner that maximizes protection.

For example, if a collision is minor, the airbag may deploy with less force, or not at all, to prevent unnecessary injury. In contrast, for a severe impact, the airbag can deploy more forcefully to provide optimal cushioning. Additionally, these systems may take into account factors like the weight and seating position of passengers, adjusting the deployment to suit the individual, which increases the overall effectiveness of airbag protection.

In contrast, airbag systems that deploy at a fixed speed or use a single deployment mode lack the customization necessary to respond appropriately to varying crash scenarios. Moreover, limiting deployment only to front seats would disregard the safety of rear-seat passengers, which modern systems are designed to protect. Thus, the adaptability feature is crucial in mitigating injuries during different types of collisions, reinforcing why this option is the best choice.