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 features the following sensors and equipment. Additional equipment may be required.
Option 2
Option 3
Ready to Experiment?
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Purchase the Lab Book
This experiment is #31 of Middle School Science with Vernier. The experiment in the book includes student instructions as well as instructor information for set up, helpful hints, and sample graphs and data.
