In wire gauge, what does a smaller AWG number indicate?

In wire gauge, a smaller American Wire Gauge (AWG) number indicates a thicker wire. The AWG system is a standardized wire gauge system used in North America, where smaller numbers correspond to larger diameters of wire. For example, a wire with a gauge of 10 AWG is thicker than a wire with a gauge of 20 AWG. This relationship is crucial in electrical applications because the thickness of the wire affects its resistance, current-carrying capacity, and overall performance in various circuits. Thicker wires can handle more current and produce less heat, making them preferable for high-power applications, while thinner wires are suited for lower power requirements.