1. Simple Machines – Wheel and Axle, Wedge and Screw

2. Wheel and Axle
A wheel and axle is a combination of 2 wheels of different diameter that turn together.
The largest wheel is the wheel
The smallest wheel is the axle

3. Examples of this type of wheel and axle:
1. Motor
2. Ski lift
3. Bike
Because the LOAD ARM is longer than the EFFORT ARM we get a speed/distance advantage!
Load
Effort Force
Load arm
Effort Arm

4. Examples of this type of wheel and axle are:
1. Steering Wheel
2. Door Knob
Because the EFFORT ARM is longer than the LOAD ARM, we get a mechanical advantage.
Load
Effort Force
Effort arm
Load Arm

5. Screw A screw is an inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder
A screw gives you a mechanical advantage.
The closer the threads, the more of a force advantage you get.
A screw can be used to convert turning motion into linear (straight) motion.
EXAMPLE: Archimedes screw

6. Wedge A wedge is a two sided inclined plane that goes into an object.
By pressing on the wide end of the wedge, you can exert a force on the narrow end so it splits an object apart.
Examples:
1. Knife blade
2. Axe
3. Door stop
Load
2 Inclined Planes
Effort Force