Mechanical SystemsMechanical Systems

Topic 1 - Levers and Inclined PlanesTopic 1 - Levers and Inclined Planes

Lever • A simple machine that changes the amount of force you need to

move an object

Parts of a lever

1. Fulcrum – The fixed point that is the lever’s point of rotation

2. Effort Force – The force you exert on a lever to make it move

3. Load – The mass of an object moved or lifted by the lever

Three Classes of Levers

1. Class 1 Lever – The fulcrum is between the effort and the load

2. Class 2 Lever – The load is between the effort and the fulcrum

3. Class 3 Lever – The effort is between the fulcrum and the load

Examples of Levers

Class 1 Levers – A see – saw, hammer, scissors, pliers, trolley, crowbar

Class 2 Levers – Bottle opener, stapler, wheelbarrow, nail clippers, nutcracker

Class 3 Levers – Fishing rod, tweezers, tongs, hockey stick

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Inclined Planes

An inclined plane is a ramp or a slope that reduces the force you need to lift something.

• Inclined planes and levers reduce the work you do to move an object.

Topic 2 – The Wheel and Axle, Gears Topic 2 – The Wheel and Axle, Gears and Pulleysand Pulleys

The Wheel and Axle

Wheels and Axles are also simple machines that provide a mechanical advantage.

Examples:

Gears

A simple machine that consists of a wheel with teeth that is used to reduce work.

Pulleys

A simple machine consisting of a grooved wheel with a rope or chain running through the groove. These are used to make work more convenient and even reduce work.

• Pulleys can be fixed or movable

• Complex pulley systems are used to move very heavy loads

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