Simple Machines

Front

What is a simple machine?

Back

A simple machine is a mechanical device that changes the direction or magnitude of a force, making work easier. Examples include levers, pulleys, inclined planes, screws, wedges, and wheel and axle.

Front

What are the six types of simple machines?

Back

The six types of simple machines are: 1) Lever, 2) Inclined Plane, 3) Wedge, 4) Screw, 5) Pulley, and 6) Wheel and Axle.

Front

What is a lever and how does it work?

Back

A lever is a rigid bar that rotates around a fixed point called the fulcrum. It is used to lift or move loads with less effort by applying a force at one end.

Front

What is the difference between a first-class lever, second-class lever, and third-class lever?

Back

In a first-class lever, the fulcrum is between the effort and the load (e.g., seesaw). In a second-class lever, the load is between the fulcrum and the effort (e.g., wheelbarrow). In a third-class lever, the effort is between the fulcrum and the load (e.g., tweezers).

Front

What is an inclined plane?

Back

An inclined plane is a flat surface that is tilted at an angle to the horizontal. It allows objects to be raised or lowered with less effort compared to lifting them vertically.

Front

What is a wedge?

Back

A wedge is a simple machine that consists of two inclined planes joined together. It is used to split, cut, or separate objects (e.g., a knife or an axe).

Front

What is a screw and how does it function as a simple machine?

Back

A screw is an inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder. It converts rotational motion into linear motion, allowing it to hold objects together or lift materials.

Front

What is a pulley and how does it work?

Back

A pulley is a simple machine that consists of a wheel on an axle with a rope or cable that runs along the groove of the wheel. It is used to lift heavy objects by changing the direction of the force applied.

Front

How does a wheel and axle function as a simple machine?

Back

A wheel and axle consists of a larger wheel attached to a smaller axle. When the wheel turns, it rotates the axle, allowing for easier movement of heavy loads.

Front

What is mechanical advantage in the context of simple machines?

Back

Mechanical advantage is the ratio of the output force produced by a machine to the input force applied. It indicates how much a machine multiplies force.