Shock absorbers, also called dampers, are part of a car's suspension system. The suspension system is responsible for helping the driver have control over the car through acceleration, impact and turns. Shock absorbers, in particular, are pistons that eliminate unwanted motion in the car's springs. Without the shock absorber, most rides in the car would be incredibly bouncy and unsettling.
Shock absorbers are located between the car's frame and wheels, connected by the frame and the car's axles. The mount is connected to a piston rod which is then connected to a piston. The piston lies in a pump filled with hydraulic fluid.
The function of shock absorbers is called dampening. Dampening is the conversion of kinetic energy, received through impact, into heat energy. The shock absorbers receive the impact of the car going over bumps and dips and other sudden, jerky movements. The absorbers receive the energy of the impact and react by slowing down the vibrations. Once the kinetic energy is made into heat energy, it is dissipated in the hydraulic fluid. The passengers experience a much smoother ride than they would otherwise.
Absorbers perform in a two-step process. The first step is called compression. During compression, the piston reacts to the coil springs in the car that absorb the energy from impact felt while driving. The piston moves downward and compresses the hydraulic fluid in the pump, turning kinetic energy into heat energy.
During extension, the piston that presses the fluid down rises up to the top of the pressure tube. The fluid is trapped in a chamber above the piston and compressed. Both compression and extension are vital in this cycle to handle the kinetic energy of acceleration, bumps, dips, turns and sway. This cycle occurs repetitively as you drive.
