Work done on brakes vs kinetic energy lost by vehicle

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between work done on brakes and the kinetic energy lost by vehicles, specifically cars and bicycles. It is established that all energy dissipated in the brakes is derived from the vehicle's kinetic energy, primarily converted into heat. The most efficient braking system identified is regenerative braking, which recovers some of the energy instead of dissipating it entirely. The concept of "efficiency" in braking systems requires clear definition to understand the context of energy conversion and loss.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinetic energy and its conversion
  • Basic knowledge of braking systems, including regenerative braking
  • Familiarity with energy dissipation in mechanical systems
  • Concept of efficiency in energy systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of regenerative braking systems in electric vehicles
  • Study the thermodynamics of energy conversion in braking systems
  • Explore different definitions of efficiency in mechanical systems
  • Analyze the impact of vehicle weight and speed on braking efficiency
USEFUL FOR

Automotive engineers, mechanical engineers, physics students, and anyone interested in the efficiency of braking systems and energy conservation in vehicles.

mrjontyy
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When doing work on the brakes of a car or bicycle, how much of that energy is actually removed from the total kinetic energy of the vehicle?
What is the most efficient braking system?
 
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Welcome to the PF. :smile:
mrjontyy said:
When doing work on the brakes of a car or bicycle, how much of that energy is actually removed from the total kinetic energy of the vehicle?
Yes, the kinetic energy is being converted into heat in the brake components.
mrjontyy said:
What is the most efficient braking system?
Regenerative braking.
 
mrjontyy said:
When doing work on the brakes of a car or bicycle, how much of that energy is actually removed from the total kinetic energy of the vehicle?
What is the most efficient braking system?

All of the energy dissipated in the brakes comes from the kinetic energy of the car. ( Unless you are going down hill at constant velocity for example).

You need to define what you mean by "efficiency" in this context. Beckman has given you a good answer based on one definition.
 

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