Fusion Splicing. Fusion splicing is the process of fusing or welding two fibers together usually by an electric arc. Fusion splicing is the most widely used method of splicing as it provides for the lowest loss and least reflectance, as well as providing the strongest and most reliable joint between two fibers. Virtually all singlemode splices are fusion.
Disc Brakes. A disc brake system consists of a brake disc, a brake calliper and brake pads. When the brake pedal is applied, pressurised hydraulic fluid squeezes the brake pad friction material against the surface of the rotating brake disc. The result of this contact produces friction which enables the vehicle to slow down or stop.
On the vast majority of cars (see Tony Vincent's answer), the parking brake, also called the emergency brake (E-brake) or handbrake, only applies brakes on the rear wheels. Pull it delicately and the car will slow down. But apply enough force (assuming the brake is in good working order) and the rear wheels will lock.