Pronunciation: [kˈɒɡ wˈiːl] (IPA) 
Cog wheel is spelled using the phonetic transcription /kɒɡ wiːl/. The first syllable "cog" is pronounced with the vowel sound "ɒ" as in "hot," followed by the consonant sound "g." The second syllable "wheel" has a long "ee" sound represented by "iː" and is pronounced with the "w" sound followed by the short "e" sound "l". This word refers to a type of gear that meshes with another gear to transmit power in machinery.
A cog wheel is a mechanical device that is used to transmit power or motion between rotating shafts or gears. Also known as a gear, a cog wheel consists of a round disk with evenly spaced teeth or cogs around its circumference. These teeth engage with the teeth of other gears to create a system of interlocking wheels, enabling the controlled transfer of power.
Cog wheels are commonly made from durable materials, such as metal or strong polymers, to withstand the forces and stresses involved in the transmission of motion. They are often used in machinery, vehicles, and various mechanical systems, where they play a crucial role in regulating speed and torque.
The size and arrangement of the teeth on a cog wheel contribute to its functionality. Smaller teeth on a cog wheel provide a higher gear ratio, resulting in increased speed but reduced torque. Conversely, larger teeth offer a lower gear ratio, providing greater torque but lower speed. This versatility allows cog wheels to be adapted to a wide range of applications, catering to different power transfer requirements.
In summary, a cog wheel is a type of gear that is utilized in many mechanical systems to transmit power or motion between rotating shafts. Its unique design with evenly spaced teeth allows for controlled speed and torque transfer, enabling the efficient operation of various machinery and devices.
The word "cog wheel" has its roots in Middle English and the Old English word "cogge", which originally referred to a tooth on a wheel or a gear. This term has Germanic origins and is related to the Old High German word "kug, kogge", meaning "ball" or "bearing". The addition of "wheel" clarifies that it specifically refers to a wheel composed of cogs or gears. Over time, "cog wheel" became a compound term to describe a particular type of gear mechanism.
