Braking Energy Summary

GCSE Physics

Brakes reduce the kinetic energy of a moving vehicle. To stop something, the energy removed must equal the work done by the brakes.

GCSE Physics

Work done braking = kinetic energy removed from vehicle
F d = ½ m v²

GCSE Physics

Using this formula, you can work out the braking distance from initial speed and force, and more!

GCSE Physics

Kinetic energy increases in direct proportion to the speed-squared. This explains why braking distance increases in an identical way.


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