A sprocket is a simple mechanical wheel with teeth or small notches which are designed to rotate and engage with the links of a chain or belt. To be compatible, though, they both need to have the same thickness and pitch.
The basic design of this device has been used all over the world for a long time. They look very similar to gears, however they aren’t designed to be meshed together. Sprockets are used for various different applications including bicycles, cars, motorcycles, tools and other machinery.
They’re often made from steel, which is hardwearing so it increases longevity. Sometimes they’re made from aluminium as it’s lighter, making it ideal for motorbikes or push bikes, however it does wear quicker than steel.