How is brake heat primarily dissipated?

Brake heat is primarily dissipated through the brake drums or rotors. When the brakes are applied, friction is generated between the brake pads and the rotating surface of the drums or rotors. This friction converts the kinetic energy of the moving vehicle into thermal energy, which raises the temperature of the braking components.

As the temperature increases, the design and material of the drums or rotors allow them to disperse the heat into the surrounding air. This heat dissipation is crucial for maintaining effective braking performance because excessive heat can lead to brake fade, where the braking system becomes less effective. Therefore, efficient heat dissipation is essential for the safety and reliability of the braking system during operation.

The other options do not serve as primary mechanisms for brake heat dissipation, which is why they are less relevant in this context.