Simple Machines 1
What is a flat surface that is tilted at an angle to help lift objects?
Inclined Plane
What is a simple machine that consists of a spiral inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder or cone?
Screw
What is a simple machine that is made of two inclined planes put together to separate objects?
Wedge
How many types of simple machines are there?
6
Give one example of an inclined plane used in everyday life.
Ramp, Stairs, Slide, etc.
** Other answers may apply - teacher discretion.
Name one common use of screws in everyday life.
Attaching pieces of wood together, like in furniture.
**Other answers may apply - teacher discretion.
Give an example of a wedge and its use.
A knife, used to cut through food.
Teeth, used to chew through food.
An axe, used to split wood.
A door stop, used to hold open a door (splits a plane).
**Other answers may apply - teacher discretion.
What is a simple machine?
A device that has few or no moving parts and makes work easier for people to do; Performs a simple function (task).
How does an inclined plane reduce the amount of force needed to lift an object?
By spreading the work over a longer distance.
Give one example of a screw used in everyday life. (You may not use "Screw" as an answer).
Lightbulb, Jar Lid, Corkscrew, etc.
**Other answers may apply - teacher discretion.
True or False: The thicker the wedge, the easier the work.
False.
What is a compound machine?
Made of 2 or more simple machines, usually made of moving parts, and performs more complex functions.
Describe a situation where a steep inclined plane would be less effective than a gradual one.
Moving heavy equipment up a steep ramp can be harder than using a gradual ramp because it requires more force.
** Other answers may apply - teacher discretion.
How is a screw related to an inclined plane?
A screw is a type of inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder. This design helps reduce the amount of force needed to move objects.
True or False: A shovel (specifically the end) would be considered a wedge.
True
What do we call it when the amount of force required from us becomes less?
Mechanical Advantage
How can you increase the mechanical advantage of an inclined plane?
You can increase the mechanical advantage by increasing the length of the slope or decreasing the height of the inclined plane.
How does the spacing of the threads on a screw affect its mechanical advantage?
Closer threads increase the mechanical advantage, making it easier to turn the screw but requiring more rotations.
Describe how wedges are used in construction.
Wedges are used to lift heavy objects, hold pieces in place, or split materials such as wood.
Identify one example of each of the following within the classroom/school:
1.) Inclined Plane
2.) Screw
3.) Wedge
1.) Stairs
2.) Lightbulb in Mrs. Henson's lamp
3.) Doorstop
**Other answers may apply - teacher discretion.