How Brakes Work by April Andy
Inertia or momentum, as described by
Newton�s Law of Motion, is the tendency of an object to remain in its current
state and resist change. It is measured by an object�s mass when stationary, its
mass and velocity when in motion. How do these laws of physics relate to the
average commuter? It�s simple. Engineers use algebraic formulas relating to the
Law of Motion to design braking systems that will arrest the forward momentum of
a 4, 000 pound vehicle traveling at 88 feet per second. Therefore, you have a
reasonable expectation that your car will stop when you step on the brake pedal.
Keep in mind, however, that brakes are a wearable item, meaning that
certain components of the braking system will wear out before the rest of the
car. These components are:
� Brake Rotors - Brake rotors are flat steel
discs mounted vertically to the vehicle�s axel. They are approximately
...
Read more »
