Definition

1. Noun:
   • A mechanical device in vehicles: A differential gear is a specific type of gear assembly, typically using bevel gears, that allows two connected shafts (especially the axles driving the wheels) to rotate at different speeds. This is essential for smooth turning, as the outer wheel on a curve must travel a longer distance and thus rotate faster than the inner wheel.

Usage

• The term "differential gear" is used primarily in mechanical and automotive engineering contexts to describe a crucial component of a vehicle's drivetrain.
• It is often shortened informally to "differential."

Examples

• Noun:
  • The car's differential gear was damaged, causing difficulty when turning corners.
  • A standard differential gear splits the engine torque equally between the two drive wheels.

Advanced Usage

• Limited-slip differential (LSD): A specialized type of differential gear that limits the speed difference between the two output shafts, providing better traction than a standard "open" differential.
  • For better performance on icy roads, the vehicle was equipped with a limited-slip differential.

Variants and Related Words

• Differential (n): The common shortened form for "differential gear."
  • The mechanic needs to check the rear axle differential.
• Final drive: A term sometimes associated with the differential assembly in a vehicle's axle.

Synonyms

• Diff (n): A common informal abbreviation.
• Axle differential: A more specific term.

Related Phrases

• "To have a blown differential": An informal phrase meaning the differential gear has failed.
  • After that loud noise, I think we have a blown differential.

Noun

1. a bevel gear that permits rotation of two shafts at different speeds; used on the rear axle of automobiles to allow wheels to rotate at different speeds on curves