Are the Differential and Transmission the Same?
1 Answers
The differential and transmission are not the same. Both the differential and transmission are components of the automotive drivetrain system, but their roles are quite distinct, and their functions differ. Definition of Transmission: The transmission uses different gears to alter the speed and torque transmitted from the engine to the wheels. Transmission gears are generally categorized into low gear, direct gear, and overdrive gear. Low gear refers to gears with a gear ratio greater than 1, such as the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gears in a common 5-speed transmission, while the 4th gear is the direct gear, and the 5th gear is the overdrive gear. Definition of Differential: When a car turns, the inner and outer wheels rotate at different speeds, with the outer wheel turning faster. If the two drive wheels were rigidly connected, one wheel would inevitably slip relative to the ground during a turn, making turning difficult and significantly affecting stability, especially at high speeds. Therefore, a device is needed to ensure that the two wheels do not interfere with each other during a turn while still providing sufficient driving force to both wheels. This device is the differential.