Pulley Challenge
Explore Simple Machines and Mechanical Advantage
Discover how pulleys make work easier! Configure different pulley systems and observe how they affect the force needed to lift weights. Complete challenges to understand mechanical advantage in simple machines.
5kg
Current Force: 0N
Distance Pulled: 0m
Work Done: 0J
Pulley Type:
Weight:
The Science of Pulleys
Simple Machines:
Pulleys are one of the six classical simple machines that change the direction or magnitude of a force.
Key Concepts:
- Mechanical Advantage: The ratio of output force to input force (MA = load/effort)
- Fixed Pulley: Changes direction of force (MA = 1)
- Movable Pulley: Provides mechanical advantage (MA = 2)
- Compound System: Combines fixed and movable pulleys for greater advantage
Work Principle:
While pulleys can reduce the force needed, they increase the distance over which the force must be applied, keeping the total work (force × distance) constant.
