Differential (mechanical device)

High school (ages 12+)
Science & Technology

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Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/differential-mechanical-device

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the key components?Pinion gear, ring gear, differential carrier, spider gears, and side gears
2. What is the related technologies?Limited-slip differentials, locking differentials, electronic torque vectoring systems
3. What is a differential in a car?It's a gear system that lets the wheels on the same axle spin at different speeds so the car can turn smoothly.
4. Why do cars need a differential when they turn?Because the outer wheel travels farther than the inner wheel, and the differential lets each wheel spin at the right speed to avoid tire wear and keep control.

Drivetrain: The system of components that transmit engine power to the drive wheels.
Torque: A twisting force that causes rotation, often referred to as rotational power.
Gear Ratio: The ratio of the number of teeth on two meshing gears, determining speed and torque transfer.