What does the term "hydroplaning" refer to?

Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle's tires lose contact with the road surface due to a layer of water. This phenomenon happens when the speed of the vehicle is such that the tire cannot displace the water fast enough, causing the tire to ride on top of the water rather than making contact with the road surface. This results in a significant loss of traction, similar to water skiing, where the skis glide over the water without penetrating it. Understanding hydroplaning is crucial for maintaining control over the vehicle, especially in wet conditions, as it can lead to accidents if the driver does not respond appropriately.