Final answer:
The first step of engaging parking brakes under normal conditions is to apply the regular foot brake. This controls the transition from kinetic to static friction, leading to a smoother stop. Hydraulic brake systems use Pascal's principle and need to have air bled out for optimal performance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first step when engaging the parking brakes under normal conditions is to apply the regular foot brake. This ensures that the vehicle is already in a controlled stop before the parking brake is engaged, which then helps to secure the vehicle in place. It is important to maintain control and safety during this process. In relation to the concept of friction while driving, when you ease up on the brake pedal as you come to a stop, you are managing the transition between kinetic friction and static friction. Kinetic friction is what slows the car as the brakes are applied, but as the car comes to a stop, static friction holds it in place. If you maintain too much pressure on the pedal right until the car stops, the abrupt switch from kinetic to static friction can cause the car to stop. Therefore, easing off the brake pedal allows for a smoother transition resulting in a softer stop.
Moreover, it's useful to understand the principle behind hydraulic brakes, which use Pascal's principle. The force applied by your foot is multiplied through a lever and a hydraulic system to apply even pressure to the wheel cylinders, allowing for effective braking.
The efficiency of the braking system can be affected by the physical state of the medium used in the brake lines. Since gases are compressible, they can absorb some of the force intended for braking, which is why any air in the hydraulic lines needs to be bled out to ensure proper brake function.