9.5 Simple Machines

As a young student, you likely learned that simple machines are capable of increasing the ability to lift and move objects. Now, as an educated AP Physics student, you are aware that this capability is governed by the relationship between force and torque.

In the space below, explain why torque is integral to the increase in force created by a simple machine. You may use an example or diagram to a…

What is the mechanical advantage of a nail puller—similar to the one shown in the figure —where you exert a force $\text{45 cm}$ from the pivot and the nail is $\text{1}.\text{8 cm}$ on the other side? What minimum force must you exert to apply a force of $\text{1250 N}$ to the nail?

a) What is the mechanical advantage of a wheelbarrow, such as the one in the figure, if the center of gravity of the wheelbarrow and its load has a perpendicular lever arm of 5.50 cm, while the hands have a perpendicular lever arm of 1.02 m? (b) What upward force should you exert to support the wheelbarrow and its load if their combined mass is 55.0 kg? (c) What force does the wheel exert on the g…

What force does the nail puller in the exercise exert on the supporting surface? The nail puller has a mass of 2.10 kg.

Repeat the exercise for the pulley shown in the figure(c), assuming you pull straight up on the rope. The pulley system’s mass is $\text{7}.\text{00 kg}$.