Simple Machines

Equal to the amount of force multiplied by the distance over which it is applied.  Force x distance.

• Simple Machine
• Work
• Pulley
• Lever

A device that applies force, changes direction of a force, or changes the strength of a  force, in order to perform a task, generally involving work done on a load. Machines are often designed to yield a high mechanical advantage to reduce the effort needed to do that work.Example: the lever, wheel and axle, pulley, screw, wedge, and inclined plane.

• Simple Machine
• Work
• Pulley
• Lever

A straight rod or board that pivots on a point known as a fulcrum. Pushing down on one end of a lever results in the upward motion of the opposite end of the fulcrum.Examples: door on hinges, seesaw, hammer, bottle opener

• Simple Machine
• Work
• Pulley
• Lever

A wheel that usually has a groove around the outside edge for a rope or belt.  Pulling down on the rope can lift an object attached to the rope.  Work is made easier because pulling down on the rope is made easier due to gravity.Examples: flag pole, crane, mini-blinds

• Simple Machine
• Work
• Pulley
• Lever

Fulcrum is placed between the load and the effort.Example: seesaw, crowbar, and balance scale

• First Class Lever
• Second Class Lever
• Third Class Lever

The load is between the effort and fulcrum.Example: wheelbarrow

• First Class Lever
• Second Class Lever
• Third Class Lever

The effort is placed between the load and the fulcrum. The effort always travels a shorter distance and must be greater than the load.Example: hammer when it is used to drive in a nail

• First Class Lever
• Second Class Lever
• Third Class Lever

A larger wheel (or wheels) connected to a smaller axle. When the axle is turned, the wheel moves a greater distance than the axle, but less force is needed to move it. Example: door knob, wagon, toy car, screwdriver

• Wheel And Axle
• Inclined Plane
• Screw
• Wedge

Two inclined planes joined back to back. Used to split things.Example: axe, knife, teeth

• Wheel And Axle

• Inclined Plane

• Screw

• Wedge

This has an inclined plane wrapped around a shaft or cylinder. Example: bolt, spiral staircase

• Wheel And Axle

• Inclined Plane

• Screw

• Wedge