Which component is used in most lever-operated hoists to prevent reverse rotation?

The correct answer is the ratchet, which plays a crucial role in preventing reverse rotation in lever-operated hoists. A ratchet mechanism is designed to allow movement in only one direction while restricting motion in the opposite direction. When the lever is pulled to lift a load, the ratchet engages with the pawl, ensuring that the load remains elevated even if the lever is released. This design is essential for safety and efficiency, as it provides a secure hold on the load, preventing accidental dropping or slippage that could occur if reverse rotation were allowed.

In lever hoists, this mechanism is particularly important because it enables the operator to easily lift heavy loads with minimal risk. The ratchet's ability to securely lock in place until the lever is deliberately pulled again for lifting purposes is a key feature that enhances operational safety.

The other components listed serve different purposes: a clutch is generally used to engage and disengage power within a drive system, a brake is meant to slow down or stop motion but does not inherently prevent reverse movement, and gears are involved in transferring and modifying rotational motion rather than controlling directionality in the same way that a ratchet does.