Simple Machines

Front

What is a lever?

Back

A simple machine consisting of a rigid bar that pivots about a fixed point (fulcrum) to lift or move loads.

Front

What is a screw?

Back

An inclined plane wrapped around a rod, used to hold objects together or lift materials.

Front

What is a pulley?

Back

A simple machine that consists of a wheel on an axle or shaft designed to support movement and change the direction of force.

Front

What is effort (input) force?

Back

The force required by a machine in order to accomplish work (the force you put on the machine).

Front

What is an example of using a simple machine?

Back

A mother pushes a stroller up a ramp.

Front

What is a wheel and axle?

Back

A simple machine consisting of a larger wheel attached to a smaller axle, allowing for easier movement or lifting.

Front

What is a fulcrum?

Back

The fixed point around which a lever pivots.

Front

What is an inclined plane?

Back

A flat surface that is tilted at an angle to help raise or lower objects.

Front

What is a wedge?

Back

A simple machine that is a triangular-shaped tool used to separate two objects or portions of an object.

Front

What is mechanical advantage?

Back

The ratio of the output force produced by a machine to the input force applied to it.