Simple Machines

A simple machine is a device that makes work easier by allowing us to push or pull in a more efficient way.

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

A lever is a bar that pivots on a fixed point called the fulcrum to lift or move loads.

A wedge is a simple machine that is wide at one end and pointed at the other, used to cut or split objects.

A screw is a simple machine that is an inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder, used to hold things together or lift objects.

A pulley is a wheel with a rope wrapped around it, used to lift or pull heavy objects.

An inclined plane is a flat surface that is tilted at an angle to help lift objects with less effort.

A wheel & axle is a simple machine consisting of a larger wheel attached to a smaller axle, used to move or transport objects.

The fulcrum is the fixed point on which a lever pivots.

A compound machine is made up of two or more simple machines working together.