What does the term "gear ratio" refer to in a transmission?

The term "gear ratio" refers specifically to the ratio of the number of teeth on two gears that are meshed together. This concept is crucial in understanding how the transmission affects the vehicle's performance. When two gears connect, the gear ratio is calculated by dividing the number of teeth on the driven gear (the one being powered) by the number of teeth on the driving gear (the one supplying power). This ratio determines how torque and speed are transmitted through the transmission system.

A higher gear ratio means that the driving gear must turn more times to make the driven gear complete one full revolution, which typically results in increased torque but reduced speed. Conversely, a lower gear ratio allows the vehicle to achieve higher speeds but with less torque. Therefore, the gear ratio is fundamental in tuning the balance between power and speed for various driving conditions.

Understanding gear ratios is vital for automotive technicians and mechanics, as it influences performance, fuel efficiency, and the vehicle's responsiveness in different scenarios.