In automotive engineering, what does the term "differential" refer to?

The term "differential" in automotive engineering specifically refers to a mechanism that enables the wheels of a vehicle to rotate at different speeds, especially during turns. This capability is crucial because when a vehicle turns, the outside wheels travel a greater distance compared to the inside wheels. If both wheels were forced to rotate at the same speed, it would create excessive tire wear and could lead to difficulties in steering and control.

The differential achieves this by allowing for the relative motion between the wheels. It typically consists of a set of gears that manage the torque distribution and allow one wheel to spin faster than the other as needed while maintaining overall power transfer from the engine to the wheels. Understanding the function of the differential is essential for grasping how vehicles handle and operate safely in various driving conditions.