simple machine

Also known as mechanical power

mechanical device that changes the direction or magnitude of a force

AI overview

A simple machine is a basic mechanical device that changes either the direction of a force you apply or how much force you need to accomplish a task. Simple machines like levers, pulleys, and ramps matter because they make work easier by allowing you to use less effort or apply force in a more convenient direction.

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Commons category: Simple machines

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Article

The six classical simple machines

A simple machine is a mechanical device that changes the direction or magnitude of a force. In general, they can be defined as the simplest mechanisms that use mechanical advantage (also called leverage) to multiply force. Usually the term refers to the six classical simple machines that were defined by Renaissance scientists: