Basic Ability Test Mechanical Reasoning and Applied Physics 2

Question 1

An inclined ramp is 10 feet long and raises a load 2 feet high. What is its mechanical advantage?

Accepted Answer

5

Answer

Mechanical advantage of an inclined plane = ramp length ÷ vertical rise = 10 ÷ 2 = 5.

Question 2

A motor uses 500 watts for 2 hours. How many kilowatt-hours does it consume?

Accepted Answer

1.0 kWh

Answer

500 W = 0.5 kW; 0.5 kW × 2 hours = 1.0 kilowatt-hour.

Question 3

A spring stretches 3 inches under 6 lbs of force. Following Hooke's Law, how far will it stretch under 10 lbs?

Accepted Answer

5 inches

Answer

The spring constant is 6 ÷ 3 = 2 lbs per inch, so 10 lbs ÷ 2 = 5 inches of stretch.

Question 4

Which of the following is NOT classified as a simple machine?

Accepted Answer

Electric motor

Answer

An electric motor converts electrical energy to mechanical energy and is a complex device, not a simple machine.

Question 5

A tank drains at 8 gallons per minute and contains 200 gallons. How many minutes will it take to empty?

Accepted Answer

25

Answer

Dividing 200 gallons by the drain rate of 8 gallons per minute equals 25 minutes.

Basic Ability Test Practice Test