Pulleys
Recommended for grades 5–12.
Introduction
A pulley is a simple machine having a rope that passes over a grooved wheel. A fixed pulley is attached to a solid support and changes the direction of force. The resistance force is the weight of the object being lifted. This force is applied to one end of the rope that goes over a fixed pulley. The effort force is exerted on the other end of the rope, in opposition to the resistance force.
A movable pulley moves along the rope with the resistance force, and the direction of the force is not changed. A pulley system may have a single pulley or a combination of pulleys. Pulleys are used to make work easier.
Objectives
In this experiment, you will
- Use a Force Sensor to measure force.
- Calculate actual mechanical advantage and ideal mechanical advantage.
- Determine efficiency.
- Make conclusions about pulley systems.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
Additional Requirements
You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?
Download Experiment Preview
The student-version preview includes:
- Step-by-step instructions for computer-based data collection
- List of materials and equipment
Note: The experiment preview of the computer edition does not include essential teacher information, safety tips, or sample data. Instructions for Logger Pro and other software (such as LabQuest App or TI handheld software, where available) are on the CD that accompanies the book. We strongly recommend that you purchase the book before performing experiments.
Standards Correlations
See all standards correlations for Middle School Science with Vernier »
Included in the Lab Book
Vernier lab books include a CD with word-processing files of the student instructions, essential teacher information, suggested answers, sample data and graphs, and more.