How do disc brakes work?

Imagine you’re riding a bicycle, cruising through the streets, whistling or singing to yourself as you let the air rush past your face. Unexpectedly, a pothole gets in the way of the seemingly smooth roads. As instincts kick in, you quickly pull the brakes. Your bicycle immediately stops. Now stop imagining and let’s answer the question as to how these disc-shaped gizmos work.

Disc brakes are a type of braking system used in mountain bikes, motorbikes, and cars. The idea is to slow down motion of the vehicle with friction. The mechanism is made of a few select components: