What is hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle's tires lose contact with the road surface due to a layer of water that builds up between the tires and the pavement. This phenomenon can happen when there is standing water on the road, particularly at speeds that exceed a vehicle's ability to disperse the water. When a vehicle hydroplanes, the driver may experience a loss of control because the tires are not gripping the road properly, which can lead to skidding or an inability to steer or brake effectively.

The other options do not accurately describe hydroplaning. A tire malfunction generally refers to issues with the tire itself, such as blowouts or deflation, while driving on a wet road is a broader condition that does not specifically denote the loss of traction associated with hydroplaning. Loss of traction on dry surfaces is not related to water and can occur under different circumstances, such as poor tire condition or sudden maneuvers. Therefore, the definition encompassed in the correct answer captures the specific conditions and mechanics behind hydroplaning accurately.