What mechanical advantage does a worm gear typically provide?

A worm gear is designed to provide a high mechanical advantage, making it particularly effective in applications where high torque output is needed from smaller input rotations. This unique design allows the worm to engage with a worm wheel in such a way that it significantly amplifies the force applied during input, leading to increased torque on the output side. This attribute is particularly advantageous in scenarios where heavy loads must be moved or positioned with precision.

The gearing ratio typically seen in worm gears means that, for a relatively small rotation of the input (the worm), the output (the worm wheel) experiences a much more substantial rotation compounded by the gear ratio, resulting in that high torque output. This is why worm gears are commonly utilized in various machinery and equipment for lifting, hoisting, or other applications requiring significant mechanical force from minimal input effort.

In contrast, other options lack certain features characteristic of worm gears, such as the ability to easily reverse motion or the inherent low efficiency typically associated with this gear type. Thus, the option emphasizing high torque output aligns perfectly with the core benefit provided by worm gears in mechanical applications.