Why do brake pads smoke when going down hill?

Brake pads can smoke when going downhill due to excessive heat generated from prolonged braking. As the vehicle descends, continuous pressure on the brakes can cause the pads and rotors to overheat, leading to thermal decomposition of the brake material. This overheating can produce smoke, which is often accompanied by a burning smell. If this occurs frequently, it may indicate the need for brake adjustment or replacement.