Chapter Nine, Lesson Three: Inclined Planes and Levers

Question 1

simple machine

Answer 1

A simple machine is the most basic device for making work easier.

Question 2

inclined plane

Answer 2

An inclined plane is a flat, sloped surface that allows you to exert your input force over a longer distance.

Question 3

wedge

Answer 3

A wedge is a device that is thick at one end and tapers to a thin edge at the other end. When you use a wedge, instead of moving an object along the inclined plane, you move the inclined plane itself.

Question 4

screw

Answer 4

Like a wedge, a screw is a simple machine that is related to the inclined plane. The threads of a crew act like an inclined plane to increase the distance over which you exert the input force.

Question 5

lever

Answer 5

A lever is a rigid bar that is free to pivot, or rotate, on a fixed point. Levers are classified according to the location of the fulcrum relative to the input and output forces.

Question 6

fulcrum

Answer 6

The fixed point that a lever pivots around is called the fulcrum.