Simple Machines
A simple machine is a machine with few or no moving parts. Simple machines make work easier.
There are 6 types of Simple Machines
pulley
lever
wedge
wheel and axel
inclined plane
screw
An inclined plane is a slanting surface, such as a ramp, that connects a lower level to a higher level. An inclined
plane can be used to alter the effort and distance involved in doing work, such as lifting loads. The trade-off is that an object must be moved a longer distance than if
it was lifted straight up, but less force is needed.
Examples: Staircase, Ramp
A wedge is an object with at least one slanting side ending in a sharp edge, which cuts material
apart.
Examples: Axe, Zipper, Knife
A screw is an inclined plane wrapped around a shaft or cylinder. This inclined plane allows the screw to move
itself or to move an object or material surrounding it when rotated.
Examples: Bolt, Spiral Staircase
A lever is a stiff bar that rests on a support called a fulcrum which lifts or moves loads. The fulcrum can be
moved depending on the weight of the object to be lifted or the force you wish to exert. Pushing down on one end of a lever results in the upward motion of the opposite
end of the fulcrum.
Examples: Door on Hinges, Seesaw, Hammer, Bottle Opener
A wheel and axel together make a simple machine. A wheel with a rod, called an axle,
through its center lifts or moves loads.
Examples: Door Knob, Wagon, Toy Car
Pulley
A pulley is a simple machine that uses grooved wheels and a rope to raise, lower or move a load.
Pulling down on the rope can lift an object attached to the rope. Work is made easier because pulling down on the rope is made easier due to gravity.
Examples: Flag Pole, Crane, Mini-Blinds
http://www.harcourtschool.com/activity/machines/simple_machines.htm
See how many simple machines you can find!
http://edheads.org/activities/simple-machines/index.htm
Powerpoint by Kim Diamond
Simple Machines: A First Look. Rainbow Educational Media. 2001. unitedstreaming. 6 September 2005 <http://www.unitedstreaming.com/>
Bibliography
Simple Machines. 100% Educational Videos. 1998. unitedstreaming. 6 September 2005 <http://www.unitedstreaming.com/>
http://www.harcourtschool.com/activity/machines/simple_machines.htm
http://edheads.org/activities/simple-machines/index.htm
