How is density defined in transportation terms?

In transportation terms, density is defined as the number of vehicles per mile on a roadway. This measurement is critical for understanding traffic conditions and is used to analyze roadway capacity, congestion levels, and the overall efficiency of traffic flow. It provides insight into how closely vehicles are spaced on the road, which can inform decisions about lane usage, traffic signal timing, and other aspects of transportation engineering.

High density often correlates with increased congestion, as more vehicles are occupying the same space, potentially leading to slower travel times. Conversely, lower density might indicate smoother traffic flow and higher travel speeds. Understanding density helps transport engineers design effective traffic management strategies and assess the need for infrastructure improvements.