Simple Machines

Front

What is a simple machine?

Back

A simple machine is a device that changes the direction or magnitude of a force, typically having few or no moving parts.

Front

What are the six types of simple machines?

Back

The six types of simple machines are lever, pulley, inclined plane, wedge, screw, and wheel and axle.

Front

What is the purpose of a fulcrum in a lever?

Back

The fulcrum is the fixed point upon which a lever rotates, allowing it to lift or move loads.

Front

How does a pulley work?

Back

A pulley consists of a wheel and a rope that can change the direction of a force, making it easier to lift heavy objects.

Front

What is the mechanical advantage of a simple machine?

Back

Mechanical advantage is the ratio of the output force produced by a machine to the input force applied to it.

Front

What is an example of a screw in everyday life?

Back

A common example of a screw is the cap of a pickle jar, which uses a spiral thread to hold the lid in place.

Front

What is the difference between a fixed pulley and a movable pulley?

Back

A fixed pulley is anchored in place and changes the direction of the force, while a movable pulley moves with the load and reduces the amount of input force needed.

Front

What role does an inclined plane play in simple machines?

Back

An inclined plane allows objects to be raised with less effort by spreading the distance over which the force is applied.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS2-2

Front

How does a lever increase force?

Back

A lever increases force by allowing a smaller input force applied at a greater distance from the fulcrum to lift a larger load closer to the fulcrum.

Front

What is a wedge and how does it function?

Back

A wedge is a simple machine that consists of two inclined planes joined together, used to split or lift objects.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS2-1