7/6/24, 11:17 PM ChatGPT 7/6/24, 11:17 PM ChatGPT
Mechanical Advantage (MA): The ratio of the output force to the input force. It describes how
A simple machine is a mechanical device that changes the direction or magnitude of a force. In
much a machine multiplies the input force.
essence, simple machines make work easier by allowing us to use less force over a greater distance
or by changing the direction of the applied force. They are the basic building blocks for more Output Force
MA =
complex machines and have been used since ancient times. Input Force
There are six classical types of simple machines: Efficiency: The ratio of the useful work performed by the machine to the total work put into it.
Real machines have less than 100% efficiency due to friction and other losses.
1. Lever: A rigid bar that rotates around a fixed point called the fulcrum. By applying force at one
Useful Work Output
point, you can lift or move a load at another point. The position of the fulcrum relative to the Efficiency = ( ) × 100%
Work Input
input force and load determines the mechanical advantage.
Simple machines are foundational in engineering and physics, illustrating fundamental principles of
Example: See-saw, crowbar. mechanics and enabling the development of more complex machinery and technology.
2. Wheel and Axle: Consists of a larger wheel attached to a smaller axle, where rotating the wheel
helps move or lift objects. It reduces the friction involved in moving objects.
Example: Car wheels, doorknob.
3. Pulley: A wheel with a grooved rim and a rope or cable running along the groove. It changes the
direction of the force applied, making it easier to lift heavy loads.
Example: Flagpole, crane.
4. Inclined Plane: A flat surface set at an angle to the horizontal. It allows lifting a heavy object by
applying a smaller force over a longer distance.
Example: Ramp, slide.
5. Wedge: A device that is thick at one end and tapers to a thin edge at the other. It transforms a
force applied to its blunt end into forces perpendicular to its inclined surfaces.
Example: Axe, knife.
6. Screw: An inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder or cone. It converts rotational force into
linear motion and can hold objects together or lift materials.
Example: Screw, jar lid.
Principles of Simple Machines
https://chatgpt.com/c/2536ea08-0142-465a-8ddb-f01f18baf16c 1/2 https://chatgpt.com/c/2536ea08-0142-465a-8ddb-f01f18baf16c 2/2
