FORMM 2-PHYSICS-TOPIC 5-SIMPLE MACHINES
A simple machine is a non-powered mechanical device that changes the direction or magnitude of a force. In general, they can be defined as the simplest mechanisms that use mechanical advantage (also called leverage) to multiply force. A simple machine uses a single applied force to do work against a single load force. Ignoring friction losses, the work done on the load is equal to the work done by the applied force.
The Concept of Inclined Plane
State the concept of inclined plane
An inclined plane is a sloping plane surface, usually a wooden plank used to raise heavy load by pulling or pushing them along the surface of the plane.
An inclined plane
Mechanical Advantage, Velocity Ratio and Efficiency of Inclined Plane
Determine mechanical advantage, velocity ratio and efficiency of inclined plane
Mechanical advantage of the inclined plane
M.A = Load/Effort
V.R of inclined plane = Length of the plane/Height of the plane
Example 6
Example:
A loaded wheelbarrow of weight 800N is pushed up an inclined plane by a force of 150N parallel to the plane. If the plane rises by 50cm for every 400cm distance measured along the plane, find the velocity ratio, mechanical advantage and efficiency of the plane.
Solution:
Data given
Load = 800N
Effort = 150N
Length of plane = 400cm
Height of the plane = 50cm
V.R =?
M.A=?
=?
M.A, V.R and Efficiency of Inclined Plane
Inclined Plane in Daily Life
Apply inclined plane in daily life
Application of Inclined Plane
Inclined planes are widely used in the form ofloading rampsto load and unload goods on trucks, ships, and planes.Wheelchair rampsare used to allow people inwheelchairsto get over vertical obstacles without exceeding their strength.Escalatorsand slantedconveyor beltsare also forms of inclined plane.
In a funicular or cable railway a railroad car is pulled up a steep inclined plane using cables. Inclined planes also allow heavy fragile objects, including humans, to be safely lowered down a vertical distance by using the normal force of the plane to reduce the gravitational force. Aircraft evacuation slides allow people to rapidly and safely reach the ground from the height of a passenger airliner.
