Simple Machines

What is a Rube Goldberg machine?

• A machine that uses direct methods to accomplish a simple task

• A machine that uses chain reactions to accomplish a simple task in a very complicated manner

• A machine that simplifies complex tasks into simpler actions

• A machine that is used for communication over long distances

What is work in physics?

• The amount of energy consumed by a machine

• The distance an object travels

• The force applied on an object without movement

• The product of force applied and the distance moved by an object

What do simple machines do?

• Increase the amount of work done

• Decrease the amount of force needed to move an object

• Make work more complicated

• Reduce the distance an object needs to move

What is a lever?

• A machine that reduces the amount of effort needed to move an object

• A bar that moves around a fixed point called a fulcrum

• A simple tool used for cutting

• A device that measures weight

What is the function of a lever?

• To measure distances

• To hold objects together

• To lift, push, and pull

• To cut materials

Which of the following is NOT an example of a lever?

• Scissors

• Nutcracker

• Wheelbarrow

• Hammer

What is the function of an inclined plane?

• To increase the effort needed to lift objects

• To lift objects from one height to another with less effort

• To measure the weight of objects

• To decrease the stability of objects

Which of the following is NOT a real-life example of an inclined plane?

• A ramp used to load luggage into a truck

• A screw driver

• A slide at a playground

• A wedge used to hold a door open

What is the function of a wedge?

• To bind objects together

• To drive between two objects to either push them apart or secure them in place

• To create a decorative pattern

• To reduce friction between two surfaces

Which of the following is NOT a real-life example of a wedge?

• Nails

• Scissors

• Zipper

• A mountain