Shock Absorber

vehicles · engineering · physics

Found in cars. Every car has shock absorbers attached to the wheels. When you hit a pothole or bump, they spring into action to stop the car from bouncing all over the place.

Converts energy. Shock absorbers take the fast-moving energy from a bump and change it into heat. This is like catching a fast ball and letting the glove absorb all that force instead of your hand.

Filled with fluid. Most shock absorbers use special oil or hydraulic fluid inside them. As the fluid gets pushed through tiny holes, it slows down the bouncing motion and releases the energy as warmth.

Makes rides smooth. Without shock absorbers, every little bump would send you flying off your seat. With them, you can drive over rough roads and feel mostly comfortable and stable.

Wear out over time. Shock absorbers don't last forever because they work so hard. After many years and thousands of bumps, they lose their springiness and your car starts bouncing more.