Which belt type is a single continuous belt used to drive multiple peripheral devices?

• A. V-belts
• B. Serpentine belt
• C. Timing belt
• D. Idle belt

Answer: (B)

A serpentine belt is a single long belt that winds around multiple pulleys to drive several accessories from one drive system. It runs in one continuous loop and is kept taut by a tensioner, allowing it to power components such as the alternator, power steering pump, water pump, and air conditioning compressor at the same time. This is different from using separate belts for each device, which is common with older V-belt setups. The timing belt, by contrast, is toothed and designed to synchronize engine camshaft and crankshaft movement, not to drive peripheral accessories. The term idle belt isn’t a standard description for a belt that drives multiple peripherals.