6 Simple Machines

Lever

is a rigid bar or plank that can
rotate around a fixed point

What is the fixed point of a lever called

a pivot or fulcrum

First Class Lever

The fulcrum is between the load and the effort force

Second Class Lever

The load is between the fulcrum and the effort force

Third Class Lever

The effort is between the load and the fulcrum

Which class lever would scissors go under

First Class Lever

which class lever would a wheel barrow go under

Second Class Lever

Disadvantage of a Lever

The effort force moves farther than the load.
You have to move a greater distance than the
load does

Inclined Plane

a ramp

Advantages of an Inclined Plane

allows you to lift heavy objects using a smaller force

Disadvantages of an Inclined Plane

-You have to exert the force over a larger
distance

-The steeper the ramp the harder it is to
control the motion of the object

Wedge

Splits an object

Advantage of a Wedge

increases the force you apply on the object

Disadvantage of a Wedge

Can only be used in one direction, to push object apart

Screw

a cylinder with spiral grooves on the outside

Advantage of a Screw

-Helps increase the force used and can penetrate materials
using a relatively small force

-Can be used to convert rotational (turning) movement
into linear (straight line) movement

Pulley

consists of a wire, rope or cable moving on one or more grooved wheels, can be fixed or moveable

Advantages of a pulley

-Can be linked together for moving and
lifting objects
-Can help lift larger loads than you could
lift on your own

Wheel and Axel

Combination of two wheels with different sizes that turn together

Advantage of a wheel and axel

- Increases the size of a force - Can be used to increase speed

Disadvantage of a wheel and axel

You have to turn a greater distance with the large wheel to apply the force

Effects of a Simple Machine

1. Changing the direction of a force
2. Multiplying force
3. Increasing or Decreasing speed
4. Transferring force