Which term refers to the outward bending of the teeth in a band saw?

The term that refers to the outward bending of the teeth in a band saw is indeed "tooth set." This is a crucial concept in band saw operation because the set of the teeth affects how the saw cuts through materials. When the teeth are bent outward, it allows for a wider kerf, or cut, which helps in preventing the blade from binding during operation. This feature is particularly important when cutting through various materials, as it aids in maintaining a smooth and efficient cutting process.

In contrast, other terms like "tooth form" refer to the shape of the teeth, which influences the cutting action but does not describe bending. "Tooth alignment" pertains to how the teeth are positioned in relation to each other and the blade's body, and "tooth rotation" is concerned with the direction in which the teeth move during cutting. These terms are relevant to the functioning of a band saw but do not define the characteristic of teeth being bent outward, which is why "tooth set" is the correct choice.