Differential (mechanical device)
Type of simple planetary gear train / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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A Differential is a mechanical device that allows wheels to rotate at different speeds while receiving equal torque. It's crucial for motor vehicles to navigate corners smoothly, as the outer wheel travels a greater distance than the inner one. Without a differential, the vehicle's wheels could slip, or the drive axle could snap.
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Differentials can also provide a gear ratio between the input and output shafts (called the "axle ratio" or "diff ratio"). For example, many differentials in motor vehicles provide a gearing reduction by having fewer teeth on the pinion than the ring gear.