Simple machines alter the direction or force of a certain object, making it easier to move. A simple device makes it easier and reduces the time required to complete a job.
Simple machines can help build skyscrapers or make it easy to chop vegetables – there’s no end to their number of uses. They’ve made life easier for humans in loads of different ways, and it’s hard to imagine we’d have developed this far without them.
Many of the complex designs and tools we use today stemmed from simple machines of the past – they’re a vital stepping stone toward complex machinery.
Simple machines can work in a variety of ways. For example, they can transfer a force from one place to another, change a force’s direction, increase its magnitude, or increase the distance or speed of a force.
Examples Of Simple Machines
Here are some examples of simple machines – objects which have helped humans achieve engineering on incredible scales.
Pully
A pully is a simple machine with a grooved wheel and rope to raise, lower or move a load.
Lever
A lever is a rigid bar that rests on support to help lift or move heavy loads.
Wedge
A wedge is an object that features at least one sloping side with a hard edge to cut apart materials.
Wheel and Axel
A wheel with a rod through the center helps lift or move loads.
Inclined Plane
An inclined plane features a slanted surface connecting a higher and lower level.
Screw
A screw is an inclined plane that is wrapped around a pole. It holds things together and can lift materials.
