What performance aspect does gear tooth design primarily affect?

The design of gear teeth is crucially tied to mechanical functionality, which encompasses how well the gears will transmit torque and motion under various operating conditions. The shape, size, and spacing of the gear teeth determine how effectively power is transferred from one gear to another, influencing factors such as load capacity, wear resistance, and the smoothness of operation. A well-designed gear tooth profile can reduce friction and improve contact between gears, which enhances overall performance and durability.

While other aspects like visual appeal and fabrication costs come into play when designing gears, they do not have as direct an impact on the performance of gears in terms of their main purpose—mechanical transmission. Similarly, electrical efficiency is more relevant to components that deal directly with electrical systems rather than the gear teeth themselves. Thus, the primary focus of gear tooth design is to optimize mechanical functionality, ensuring that gears perform reliably and effectively in their designated applications.