Work & Simple Machines

work

force X distance

power

work (force X distance) divided by time

work (science definition)

using force to move an object a distance

joules

unit used to measure work

watts

unit used to measure power

mechanical advantage

ratio of output force divided by input force

simple machines

a device that helps make work easier

lever

straight bar or rod that turns on a pivot point (fulcrum)

inclined plane

a ramp

screw

holds things together

wheel & axle

reduces the friction of moving something

pulley

something that uses a rope and can change the direction of a force

wedge

can split an object apart

efficiency

the ratio of the output work to the input work

fulcrum

the point about which a lever pivots