Simple Machines

A simple machine is a device that makes work easier by allowing us to apply force in a more efficient way.

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

A lever is a simple machine that consists of a rigid bar that pivots around a fixed point called the fulcrum.

A wheel and axle is a simple machine that consists of a larger wheel attached to a smaller axle, allowing them to turn together.

A pulley is a simple machine that uses a wheel and a rope to lift or lower objects.

An inclined plane is a flat surface that is tilted at an angle to help raise or lower objects.

A wedge is a simple machine that is used to split or cut objects apart, consisting of two inclined planes.

A screw is a simple machine that consists of a spiral inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder, used to hold objects together or lift them.

Simple machines make work easier by reducing the amount of force needed to move an object or by changing the direction of the force.

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