What does "gear ratio" refer to in mechanical systems?

Gear ratio in mechanical systems fundamentally refers to the ratio of the number of teeth on two meshing gears. This concept is crucial as it determines how power is transmitted between gears and influences both speed and torque outputs in a system. When two gears mesh, the gear with more teeth will rotate slower but exert greater torque, while the one with fewer teeth will rotate faster but with less torque.

Understanding gear ratios is essential for applications such as machinery design, automotive transmissions, and various mechanical systems. The gear ratio helps in determining how forces and movements are transformed within a machine, allowing for the optimization of performance and efficiency based on the specific design requirements. This knowledge is vital for engineers and mechanics when selecting or designing gear systems for desired outcomes.