A ball bearing is a mechanical component that reduces friction between moving parts. It consists of a series of small steel or ceramic balls housed in a ring, allowing for smooth rotation or linear movement. Ball bearings are commonly used in various machines, from bicycles to motors, to enhance efficiency and longevity. These components work by distributing loads evenly, which helps to minimize wear and tear. By allowing parts to move freely, ball bearings improve performance in applications like automobiles and industrial equipment. Their design enables them to handle both radial and axial loads, making them versatile in many engineering fields.