Simple Machines

The screw, another of the simple machines, converts a circular motion (the turning of the screw) into a linear motion. It also lets you amplify the force a great deal, since turning the screw only moves the end of the screw a small amount. This classic...

As the pendulum swings back and forth, its energy changes from potential energy (the energy it has at the top of its swing, when it is raised up) into kinetic energy (the energy of motion). But the pendulum can be used as a device to explore other...

One pulley can be used to change the direction of the force applied by a cord several pulleys can be used to make this simple machine. A small force on the cord can be used to lift a large weight. Experimenting with the device shows why: lifting the...