What is used to reduce friction and wear on gears in mechanical systems?

Ball bearings are specifically designed to reduce friction and wear between moving parts, such as gears in mechanical systems. By allowing rotational movement with minimal resistance, ball bearings help ensure smooth operation and extend the lifespan of the components they support. They achieve this by providing a low-friction interface that separates surfaces that would otherwise make contact. This characteristic makes them essential for applications where gears are subjected to heavy loads and high speeds, as they can significantly improve efficiency and reduce the wear and tear typically associated with direct contact.

Other options like oil seals, sprockets, and gear teeth serve different purposes in a mechanical system. Oil seals are used to prevent the leakage of lubricants and maintain the integrity of the lubricated area, but they do not directly contribute to the reduction of friction within the gears themselves. Sprockets are components that work with chains or belts to transmit motion. Gear teeth are essential for engaging and transferring torque between gears but do not mitigate friction; rather, they create it during operation. Thus, the role of ball bearings in reducing friction and wear in gear systems is crucial and distinct from the functions of these other components.