What is the primary function of gears in machinery?

Gears play a crucial role in machinery by controlling the speed and direction of rotation. When gears are engaged, they interlock and transfer rotational motion from one gear to another. Through this interaction, they can either increase or decrease the speed of rotation, depending on their size and the arrangement of the gears. For example, a larger gear turning a smaller gear will result in the smaller gear turning faster. Additionally, gears can change the direction of rotation; when one gear turns clockwise, an adjacent gear will turn counterclockwise. This ability to both modify speed and alter direction is essential in various mechanical systems, enabling machines to operate efficiently and effectively.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary function of gears. While energy storage is important in some mechanical systems, it is not a direct function of gears. Similarly, converting electrical energy into mechanical energy pertains more to motors rather than the role of gears. Lastly, maintaining a consistent temperature is typically related to thermal management systems rather than the operation of gears in machinery.