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ASVAB · Simple Machines (Levers, Pulleys, Gears)

Two meshed gears turn in what directions relative to each other?

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Correct answer

Opposite directions

  1. A Both stop
  2. B The same direction
  3. C Random directions
  4. D Opposite directions

Why this is the answer

Two directly MESHED (interlocking) gears turn in OPPOSITE directions — if one turns clockwise, the other turns counterclockwise. ASVAB Mechanical Comprehension tests gear systems.

Gear direction: adjacent meshed gears always rotate oppositely.

Gear ratio/speed: a smaller gear driving a larger gear turns the larger one SLOWER but with more torque; a larger gear driving a smaller one turns it FASTER with less torque. To make two gears turn the SAME direction, you add a third (idler) gear between them. Gear direction and speed relationships are commonly tested.

Source: ASVAB Mechanical Comprehension — Gears

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About this topic: Simple Machines (Levers, Pulleys, Gears)

Simple machines — levers, pulleys, gears, inclined planes, wheel-and-axle, screws — are the heart of Mechanical Comprehension. Each question comes down to mechanical advantage: how much the machine multiplies force, and the trade-off in distance. This is one of 23 Mechanical Comprehension questions on simple machines (levers, pulleys, gears), each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our ASVAB exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

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