CPS Mechanical Aptitude and Principles 3

Question 1

Water flowing through a hose is forced into a narrower nozzle. What happens to the water's speed at the nozzle?

Accepted Answer

It speeds up

Answer

When fluid passes from a wide pipe into a narrow opening, its velocity increases (continuity principle).

Question 2

Two people carry a load on a pole between them. To make one person bear more weight, the load should be moved how?

Accepted Answer

Closer to that person

Answer

Moving the load closer to one person shortens that person's lever arm, placing more weight on them.

Question 3

What is the mechanical advantage of a pulley system with four supporting rope segments?

Accepted Answer

4

Answer

Mechanical advantage of a block and tackle equals the number of rope segments supporting the load, here four.

Question 4

A bimetallic strip bends when heated because the two metals do what?

Accepted Answer

Expand by different amounts

Answer

The two metals expand at different rates when heated, causing the strip to bend.

Question 5

If a wrench handle is made longer, the force you can apply to turn a bolt does what?

Accepted Answer

Increases

Answer

A longer handle increases the lever arm, multiplying the torque applied to the bolt.

CPS Firefighter Test Practice Test