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Brakes work by converting kinetic energy (forward motion) into thermal energy (heat).
The friction between the stationary brake pad and rotating disk or drum as it slides past the pad convert the motion of the wheel and tire into heat, much the way rubbing your hands together on a cold day will warm them up. Bringing your car to a stop generates enough heat at each wheel to boil a liter of water in about 7 seconds. Brake temperatures can reach around 500°F during normal everyday use, and can reach up to 1000°F under heavy or repetitive braking. |
