Which statement correctly distinguishes a V-belt drive from a timing belt drive?

• A. V-belts require teeth to mesh, while timing belts rely on friction.
• B. Timing belts provide synchronized, non-slip drive with teeth.
• C. Both belt types require no alignment.
• D. Timing belts transmit power by friction only.

Answer: (A)

The key idea is how each belt transmits motion and whether slip is prevented. A V-belt relies on friction between the belt and the pulley grooves to transfer torque, so there’s potential for slip if tension isn’t kept correct or if loads change. It does not have teeth. A timing belt, on the other hand, has teeth that mesh with corresponding grooves on the pulley, creating a positive engagement. This teeth-and-groove contact locks the rotation between the pulleys, giving a synchronized, non-slip drive. That’s why timing belts are described as providing synchronized, non-slip drive with teeth. The statement about V-belts requiring teeth to mesh is not accurate because V-belts don’t have teeth and depend on friction rather than gear-like engagement.