What role do brake pads play in a vehicle's braking system?

Brake pads play a crucial role in a vehicle's braking system by creating friction against the brake rotors, which is essential for slowing down or stopping the vehicle. When the brake pedal is pressed, hydraulic force is applied to move the calipers, which in turn push the brake pads against the spinning rotors. This friction generated between the pads and rotors translates into the kinetic energy of the vehicle being converted to thermal energy, effectively slowing down the wheels and stopping the vehicle.

The effectiveness of the brake pads in generating sufficient friction is vital for safe and responsive braking. Different materials are used for brake pads, varying in composition to balance performance, noise reduction, and wear characteristics. This function is fundamental to the braking process, making it central to vehicle operation and safety.