Lets start with...

The Inclined Plane

The Inclined Plane is a simple machine consisting of a sloping surface on which an object can move.
inclined plane.jpg


Inclined Planes are used in order to reduce the force needed to move an object. For example: If you wanted to drive up a hill but it was too steep for your car then you would have to take a winding road because it would be less steep. In order to make the inclined plane more efficient you can add lubricants and wheels to it so there is less friction.
external image the-long-and-winding-road-17242.jpg

Here's a short video on The Inclined Plane:


How to calculate the Ideal Mechanical Advantage, Mechanical Advantage, and Mechanical Efficiency of the Inclined Plane

The formula used to calculate ideal mechanical advantage of the inclined plane is...

IMA=Lenght of ramp/height of ramp

length and height.jpg
The formula used to calculate mechanical advantage of the inclined plane is...

MA=Load force/Effort force

The formula used to calculate mechanical efficiency of the inclined plane is...

ME=Work output/Work input x 100%
Work=Force x distance



Other pages...
Clarisse's quiz for the inclined plane and the lever
Clarisse's page on Levers
Clarisse's quiz for the inclined plane and the lever ANSWERS