Understanding Simple Machines

What is the primary purpose of simple machines?

• To increase the amount of work done

• To decrease the amount of effort needed to perform work

• To make machines more complex

• To reduce the speed of work

Which simple machine consists of a rigid bar that pivots around a point?

• Screw

• Lever

• Inclined plane

• Wheel and axle

How does a wheel and axle reduce the amount of energy required to move an object?

• By reducing friction

• By storing energy as momentum

• By increasing the distance covered

• By transferring force from one direction to another

What is the mechanical advantage of a lever determined by?

• Dividing the length of the effort arm by the length of the load arm

• Multiplying the number of pulleys

• Dividing the radius of the wheel by the radius of the axle

• Dividing the side length by the width of the large end

Which early human ancestor is believed to have used simple machines?

• Homo sapiens

• Neanderthals

• Homo erectus

• Homo habilis

What simple machine is a door handle an example of?

• Wedge

• Screw

• Lever

• Pulley

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

• Knife

• Chisel

• Axe

• Ramp

In what setting are you likely to find the most simple machines?

• Office

• Garden

• Kitchen

• Library

What simple machine is used in a flagpole to raise and lower a flag?

• Inclined plane

• Wheel and axle

• Pulley

• Lever

Which simple machine is commonly found in the human body?

• Lever

• Pulley

• Wheel and axle

• Screw