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Mechanical Systems. Topic 1 - Levers and Inclined Planes. Lever A simple machine that changes the amount of force you need to move an object Parts of a lever Fulcrum – The fixed point that is the lever’s point of rotation Effort Force – The force you exert on a lever to make it move
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Topic 1 - Levers and Inclined Planes Lever • A simple machine that changes the amount of force you need to move an object Parts of a lever • Fulcrum – The fixed point that is the lever’s point of rotation • Effort Force – The force you exert on a lever to make it move • Load – The mass of an object moved or lifted by the lever
Three Classes of Levers • Class 1 Lever – The fulcrum is between the effort and the load • Class 2 Lever – The load is between the effort and the fulcrum • Class 3 Lever – The effort is between the fulcrum and the load
Examples of Levers Class 1 Levers – A see – saw, hammer, scissors, pliers, trolley, crowbar Class 2 Levers – Bottle opener, stapler, wheelbarrow, nail clippers, nutcracker Class 3 Levers – Fishing rod, tweezers, tongs, hockey stick
Inclined Planes An inclined plane is a ramp or a slope that reduces the force you need to lift something. • Inclined planes and levers reduce the work you do to move an object.
Topic 2 – The Wheel and Axle, Gears and Pulleys The Wheel and Axle Wheels and Axles are also simple machines that provide a mechanical advantage. Examples:
Gears A simple machine that consists of a wheel with teeth that is used to reduce work. Pulleys A simple machine consisting of a grooved wheel with a rope or chain running through the groove. These are used to make work more convenient and even reduce work. • Pulleys can be fixed or movable • Complex pulley systems are used to move very heavy loads