FREE AFCT Mechanical Comprehension Questions and Answers

Question 1

In the gear train shown, Gear 1 turns clockwise. In which direction will Gear 3 turn?

Accepted Answer

Clockwise.

Answer

It will not turn.

Answer

Counter-clockwise.

Answer

The direction is indeterminate.

Question 2

To lift a heavy object with a lever and fulcrum, where should the fulcrum be placed to use the least amount of effort?

Accepted Answer

Closer to the heavy object.

Answer

Exactly in the middle of the lever.

Answer

Closer to the person applying the effort.

Answer

Directly underneath the heavy object.

Question 3

In a hydraulic lift system, a small amount of force is applied to a small piston. What is the effect on the larger piston?

Accepted Answer

A larger force is exerted over a smaller distance.

Answer

A smaller force is exerted over a larger distance.

Answer

An equal force is exerted over an equal distance.

Answer

An equal force is exerted over a larger distance.

Question 4

A ball is being swung in a circle on the end of a string. If the string suddenly breaks, in which direction will the ball travel?

Accepted Answer

It will fly off in a straight line tangent to the circle at the point of release.

Answer

It will continue in a circular path.

Answer

It will fly directly away from the center of the circle.

Answer

It will drop straight to the ground.

Question 5

Which of the following pulley systems provides the greatest mechanical advantage and makes it easiest to lift the 100lb weight?

Accepted Answer

Two fixed pulleys and two movable pulleys.

Answer

A single fixed pulley attached to the ceiling.

Answer

A single movable pulley attached to the weight.

Answer

A single fixed pulley and a single movable pulley.

Question 6

Two individuals are carrying a heavy, uniform log. Person A is at one end, and Person B is one-quarter of the way from the other end. Who is supporting more of the log's weight?

Accepted Answer

Person B.

Answer

Person A.

Answer

They are supporting equal weight.

Answer

The distribution of weight cannot be determined.

In the gear train shown, Gear 1 turns clockwise.In which direction will Gear 3 turn?

In the gear train shown, Gear 1 turns clockwise.
In which direction will Gear 3 turn?