What does the pitch of a thread refer to?

The pitch of a thread specifically refers to the distance between each thread or the axial distance between adjacent threads. In screw threads, this measurement plays a crucial role in determining how tightly and efficiently the threads engage with each other when fastened, as well as the mechanical advantage gained by the screw's geometry.

For example, a finer pitch means that the threads are closer together, allowing for more turns in a given length and typically resulting in a higher mechanical advantage. Conversely, a larger pitch results in more spaced-out threads, which might allow for quicker fastening but can provide less grip. Understanding pitch is essential for applications where the performance and security of threaded connections are critical, such as in machinery, construction, and manufacturing.

Other answer choices describe different characteristics of a thread. The angle relates to the slope of the threads, the depth concerns how deep the threads go into the material, and the width speaks to the thickness of the thread itself, but none of these define pitch as accurately as the distance between threads does.