In the context of gears, what does a higher tooth count do to torque?

A higher tooth count in gears typically leads to an increase in torque output. This is due to the mechanical advantage created by the gear ratio. When one gear with a higher tooth count meshes with another gear with a lower tooth count, the gear with more teeth can turn more slowly but with greater torque. This is because the force applied on the bigger gear is multiplied by the larger number of teeth, allowing it to transmit more power to the lower tooth-count gear, thus increasing torque.

This relationship is crucial in applications where higher torque is needed, such as in machinery that requires strong rotational force to initiate movement or sustain heavy loads. The need for efficient power transmission often dictates the design and gearing ratios used in mechanical systems.

Other options may imply differences in function or performance—such as no effect on torque or reducing output—but they do not accurately reflect the relationship between tooth count and torque output, particularly in gear systems.