The power flow through two interconnected planetary gear sets is best described as _________ power flow.

The power flow through two interconnected planetary gear sets is best described as _________ power flow.

• A. Versatile
• B. Double reverse
• C. Compound
• D. Reverse

Answer: (C)

When two planetary gear sets are interconnected, the power path passes through more than one gear stage in sequence, making it a compound gear train. The overall speed and torque result from the combined effect of both stages, essentially multiplying the individual gear ratios. This multi-stage flow is why the term “compound” best describes the power flow. The other ideas don’t fit as well: direction of rotation (reverse) or a generic, non-technical label (versatile) don’t capture the fact that power goes through two interconnected gear sets to produce a compounded effect on speed and torque.

When two planetary gear sets are interconnected, the power path passes through more than one gear stage in sequence, making it a compound gear train. The overall speed and torque result from the combined effect of both stages, essentially multiplying the individual gear ratios. This multi-stage flow is why the term “compound” best describes the power flow.

The other ideas don’t fit as well: direction of rotation (reverse) or a generic, non-technical label (versatile) don’t capture the fact that power goes through two interconnected gear sets to produce a compounded effect on speed and torque.