When a rear-wheel drive (RWD) car turns, the rear wheels, which receive power from the engine, manage torque distribution to navigate the corner effectively.
The core mechanism enabling the rear wheels to handle turning is the rear differential. Power generated by the engine travels through the transmission to the rear axle.
According to the provided information, "The rear differential sends sufficient torque to each wheel to handle maneuvers like turns." This means that while the car is turning, the differential allows the outer wheel to rotate faster than the inner wheel. This difference in speed is crucial because the outer wheel covers a greater distance than the inner wheel during a turn. Without the differential managing torque and allowing this speed difference, the rear wheels would try to spin at the same rate, causing one wheel to drag or slip, especially on tight turns.
In summary, the turning process in a rear-wheel drive car, specifically concerning the powered rear wheels, relies on the differential to split and distribute the engine's torque appropriately between the left and right rear wheels, allowing them to rotate at different speeds required for a smooth turn.
- Engine Power Flow in RWD:
- Engine generates power.
- Power goes through the transmission.
- Power is sent to the rear wheels.
- Differential's Role in Turning:
- Located on the rear axle.
- Receives power from the transmission.
- Sends sufficient torque to each wheel to handle maneuvers like turns, allowing wheels to spin at different speeds.
