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How does power get to the wheels of a car?

In a typical internal combustion engine-powered car, the process of how power gets to the wheels involves several components working together. Here is a step-by-step explanation:

1. Engine: The engine is the heart of the car and is responsible for generating power. It converts the chemical energy stored in fuel (usually gasoline or diesel) into mechanical energy.

2. Transmission: The transmission is a set of gears that allows the engine to operate at different speeds while maintaining an efficient flow of power to the wheels. It helps to adjust the engine's speed and torque output to the demands of the driving conditions.

3. Driveshaft: The driveshaft is a long cylindrical shaft that connects the transmission to the differential. It transmits rotational power from the transmission to the differential.

4. Differential: The differential is a set of gears that allows the wheels on each side of the car to rotate at different speeds, which is necessary when turning. It also distributes power evenly between the left and right wheels.

5. Axles: The axles are shafts that connect the differential to the wheels. They transmit power from the differential to the wheels, causing them to rotate.

6. Wheels: The wheels are the final point of contact between the car and the road. They are attached to the axles and rotate as the axles rotate. The rotation of the wheels propels the car forward or backward.

7. Tires: The tires are made of rubber and are mounted on the wheels. They provide traction between the car and the road surface, enabling the car to move.

In addition to these main components, there are also various other systems and components involved in the transmission of power to the wheels, such as the clutch, flywheel, and universal joints, which help to smoothly transfer power from the engine to the wheels.