Simple Machines
Simple machines are basic mechanical devices that help make
work easier. These machines use a single force to overcome a
larger resistance. Learn more about these essential tools and their
impact.
by KEVIN NAGAL
What are simple machines?
Mechanical Advantage Effort & Load
They reduce the force Effort is the force applied,
needed to do work. while the load is the
resistance overcome.
Types of Work
Simple machines change the direction of force, increase the
magnitude of force, or both.
The six types of simple machines
1 Lever 2 Pulley
A rigid bar that pivots on a fixed point called a fulcrum. A wheel with a groove that changes the direction
of a force.
3 Inclined Plane 4 Wedge
A flat surface that is tilted at an angle. A triangular tool that is used to split or separate objects.
5 Screw 6 Wheel and Axle
An inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder. A wheel attached to a rod that rotates with it.
Levers
1 First Class Lever
Fulcrum is between the effort and the load.
2 Second Class Lever
The load is between the fulcrum and the effort.
3 Third Class Lever
The effort is between the fulcrum and the load.
Pulleys
Fixed Pulley
A pulley that is attached to a fixed point.
Movable Pulley
A pulley that is attached to the load.
Block and Tackle
A system of multiple pulleys.
Inclined planes
Advantages Examples
Reduces the force needed to lift a load. Ramps
Makes it easier to move heavy objects. Slides
Stairways
Wedges
Type Description
Thin Wedge Used to split thin objects.
Thick Wedge Used to split thicker objects.
Double Wedge Used to split objects from
both sides.
Screws
Types
Wood screws, machine screws, self-tapping screws.
Function
Convert rotational motion into linear motion.
Applications
Fastening, lifting, clamping.
The mechanical
advantage of simple
machines
Mechanical advantage is the ratio of the output force to the input
force. A higher mechanical advantage means that less effort is
needed to overcome a load.
How simple machines
make work easier
Simple machines reduce the force needed to move objects,
changing the direction of the force, or both. This reduces the
amount of work needed to complete a task. Simple machines have
been used for centuries and are essential tools in our daily lives.
