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ASVAB · Simple Machines (Levers, Pulleys, Gears)

When two gears of different sizes mesh together, what happens to the smaller gear compared to the larger gear?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

The smaller gear turns faster but with less torque than the larger gear

  1. A The smaller gear does not turn
  2. B The smaller gear turns faster but with less torque than the larger gear
  3. C The smaller gear turns slower
  4. D Both turn at exactly the same speed

Why this is the answer

When a small gear meshes with a larger gear, the smaller gear turns faster but with less torque, while the larger gear turns slower but with more torque. This is because the teeth move at the same rate where they mesh, so the smaller gear must complete more revolutions to keep up. Gears trade speed for torque (turning force) just as levers and pulleys trade force for distance. Meshed gears also turn in opposite directions. Understanding the speed-versus-torque tradeoff in gear pairs — small gear faster/less torque, large gear slower/more torque — is essential mechanical comprehension content.
Source: ASVAB MC, 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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