Eli5: Why are f1 tires smooth and grippy, but street tires with no tread are dangerous and slippery

Question

When you Google why are f1 tires smooth, the answer is no tread means more surface area, so better grip, but when you Google why do street tires have grooves, the same answer comes up. I’m confused. Also, is this a physics question, engineering or technology? Lol

In: Engineering

Answer 1

F1 only uses those tires when it’s dry, when they are very effective.

However when you drive your own car, it’s not always dry, there is water on the road. This water needs to go somewhere so you don’t literally drive on water with your car.

F1 cars use grooves when it’s raining, slicks are only for dry