Brake fluid is made up of a chemical that:

• A. is a strong acid to prevent corrosion
• B. has a high boiling point to withstand engine heat
• C. readily absorbs water to improve performance
• D. is highly reactive with metals

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of brake fluid in a vehicle's braking system: it must perform reliably under high temperature conditions generated by braking.
2. Recall that brake fluid should have a high boiling point to prevent vaporization under heat, which could cause brake failure due to vapor lock.
3. Consider why brake fluid should not be a strong acid or highly reactive with metals, as these properties would cause corrosion and damage to the braking system components.
4. Recognize that while brake fluid can absorb some water (hygroscopic), excessive water absorption lowers its boiling point and reduces performance, so this is not a desired primary property.
5. Conclude that the key chemical property of brake fluid is having a high boiling point to withstand engine heat, ensuring safe and effective braking.