SIMPLE MACHINES
Simple machines change the direction or magnitude of a force. Every complex machine is built from these six foundations.
1. Lever
A rigid bar that pivots around a fulcrum to multiply force.
2. Wheel & Axle
A wheel attached to a shaft that reduces friction and amplifies motion.
3. Pulley
A wheel and rope system that changes force direction.
4. Inclined Plane
A sloped surface that reduces the force needed to lift objects.
5. Wedge
Two inclined planes used to split or hold materials.
6. Screw
An inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder to convert rotation into force.