Simple Machines

Front

What is a simple machine?

Back

A simple machine is a device that changes the direction or magnitude of a force, making work easier.

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

How does a lever work?

Back

A lever consists of a rigid bar that pivots around a fixed point called the fulcrum, allowing a smaller force to lift a heavier load.

Front

What is the purpose of a pulley?

Back

A pulley is used to change the direction of a force, making it easier to lift heavy objects.

Front

What is an inclined plane?

Back

An inclined plane is a flat surface tilted at an angle, which allows heavy objects to be raised with less effort.

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 separate or hold objects apart.

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, indicating how much a machine multiplies force.

Front

How does a screw function as a simple machine?

Back

A screw is an inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder, converting rotational motion into linear motion, allowing for the fastening of objects.

Front

What is the role of a wheel and axle in simple machines?

Back

A wheel and axle consist of a larger wheel attached to a smaller axle, allowing for easier movement of loads over distances.

Front

How do simple machines make work easier?

Back

Simple machines reduce the amount of force needed to perform work, change the direction of force, or increase the distance over which a force is applied.