Which of the following is true about backlash in gears?

• A. It increases friction significantly
• B. It reduces wear when lubrication is absent
• C. It provides clearance for proper mesh
• D. It eliminates the need for lubrication

Answer: (C)

Backlash is the intentional clearance between meshing gear teeth. This spacing lets gears come together and separate smoothly even with small errors in manufacturing, deflection under load, and thermal expansion, and it also makes room for a lubricant film so the teeth can slide rather than grind against each other. Without this clearance, slight misalignment or expansion could cause binding or jamming and damage the teeth. So providing this gap is essential for reliable mesh. The other statements miss the purpose: backlash isn’t about significantly increasing friction, it doesn’t reduce wear when lubrication is absent, and it doesn’t eliminate the need for lubrication.