Simple Machines

Front

What is a simple machine?

Back

A simple machine is a device that changes the direction or magnitude of a force, making work easier.

Front

Name the six types of simple machines.

Back

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

Front

What is an inclined plane?

Back

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

Front

What is a wedge and how does it work?

Back

A wedge is a simple machine that is used to split objects apart or hold them open, functioning by converting force applied to its blunt end into forces perpendicular to its inclined surfaces.

Front

Define a lever and its components.

Back

A lever is a rigid bar that pivots around a fixed point called the fulcrum. It has three components: the effort (force applied), the load (resistance), and the fulcrum.

Front

What is a compound machine?

Back

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

Front

How does a pulley make work easier?

Back

A pulley makes work easier by changing the direction of the force needed to lift an object, allowing for easier lifting.

Front

What is the function of a screw as a simple machine?

Back

A screw converts rotational motion into linear motion, allowing for the fastening of objects together.

Front

Explain how a wheel and axle work as a simple machine.

Back

A wheel and axle consists of a larger wheel attached to a smaller axle, allowing for easier movement of heavy loads by reducing friction.

Front

What is mechanical advantage in the context of simple machines?

Back

Mechanical advantage is the ratio of the output force produced by a machine to the input force applied, indicating how much a machine multiplies force.