Brakes

Brakes help vehicles slow down or stop by turning motion into heat through friction.

How It Works

Most cars use disc brakes, drum brakes, or both. When a driver presses the brake pedal, brake pads squeeze a spinning part connected to the wheel.

Why It Matters

Friction slows the wheel and creates heat. Anti-lock braking systems help drivers keep steering during hard stops.

Fun Facts

• Most cars use disc brakes, drum brakes, or both.
• When a driver presses the brake pedal, brake pads squeeze a spinning part connected to the wheel.
• Friction slows the wheel and creates heat.
• Anti-lock braking systems help drivers keep steering during hard stops.

Did You Know?

Engineers study brakes by testing, measuring, improving designs, and learning from real-world use.