Simple and Complex Machines

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers the definitions and core concepts of simple and compound machines, including types of motion and mechanical advantage calculations.

Simple machines

Tools that help make work easier by reducing the amount of force needed.

Pulley

A wheel with a groove in it, and a rope in the groove, used to move a load up, down, or sideways.

Inclined Plane

A simple machine where one end is higher than the other end, such as a ramp used to move objects to a higher or lower place.

Wheel and Axle

A simple machine made of a rod attached to the center of a wheel.

Wedge

A triangular-shaped tool that is used to split, cut, or lift objects apart.

Lever

A machine consisting of a beam, fulcrum, force, and load.

Beam

The wooden plank or metal bar of a lever that rests on the fulcrum.

Fulcrum

The pivot or turning point of a lever.

Force (Effort)

The effort or input needed to move the beam and load of a lever.

Load

The item or object being moved or lifted on the plank of a lever.

Screw

A machine used to hold objects together, often featuring grooves such as those found on jar lids or bottle caps.

Translational motion

Motion that happens when an object moves from one place to another in a straight or curved path.

Work

The product of force and distance, represented by the formula $W = F \times d$.

Compound machines

Machines made up of two or more simple machines working together to make work easier and more efficient.

Rotational motion

Motion that happens when an object rotates or spins around a fixed axis or center.

Torque

The force that causes an object to rotate around an axis.

Mechanical advantage

The measure of how much a simple machine multiplies the input force, making work easier.

Ideal Mechanical Advantage (IMA)

The mechanical advantage based on the design or dimensions of the machine, assuming no friction.

Actual Mechanical Advantage (AMA)

The mechanical advantage based on actual forces involved, including the effects of friction and energy losses.

Efficiency

The percent of work put into a machine (input work) that becomes work done by the machine (output work).