Simple Machines and Mechanical Advantage Questions and Answers Flashcards
7 cards from real MECHANICAL APTITUDE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Simple Machines and Mechanical Advantage Questions and Answers flashcards as text
A block and tackle system has 4 rope segments supporting the movable block. What is its mechanical advantage?
Answer: 4
In a block and tackle, the mechanical advantage equals the number of rope segments supporting the load — here, 4.
Which simple machine is most suitable for splitting a log?
Answer: Wedge
A wedge converts a downward driving force into a horizontal splitting force, making it ideal for splitting wood (an ax head is a wedge).
The velocity ratio (VR) of a machine is defined as:
Answer: Input distance ÷ Output distance
Velocity ratio = input distance ÷ output distance; it tells you how much farther the effort moves compared to the load.
An ax head is an example of which simple machine?
Answer: Wedge
An ax head is a wedge — its tapered shape converts the force of a swing into outward splitting forces on either side.
Which of the following tools has a mechanical advantage less than 1?
Answer: Fishing rod
A fishing rod is a third-class lever where the effort is between the fulcrum and load, trading mechanical advantage for a greater output speed and range of motion.
The pitch of a screw refers to:
Answer: The distance between adjacent threads
Pitch is the distance between two adjacent thread crests; a smaller pitch means finer threads and greater mechanical advantage per revolution.
A single fixed pulley is used to lift a 120 lb load. Ignoring friction, what effort force is required?
Answer: 120 lbs
A single fixed pulley has a mechanical advantage of 1 — it only changes the direction of force, so the effort equals the load: 120 lbs.