Simple Machines

Simple machines can change the magnitude or direction of force. These mechanical devices are defined as simple mechanisms that use mechanical leverage in order to multiply force. They are used to maximize the output force to perform certain tasks more efficiently and easily. The ratio between the input and the output force is known as the mechanical advantage, and it is this advantage that determines the effectiveness of a simple machine.

There are six known simple machines, and they are lever, wheel and axle, pulley, inclined plane, wedge, and screw. These are the elementary parts that make up certain parts of complicated machines. For example, in the mechanism of a bicycle, pulley, levers, and wheels are used. The simple machines can be divided into two categories. The machines in the first category, which are wheel, level, and pulley, depend on torques equilibrium to perform work. In the second category, machines such as wedge, inclined, screw, and plane have to rely on the vector resolution of force.

• ThinkQuest.org - Simple Machines:
  Demonstrations of simple machines with pictures and animations
  
• The Franklin Institute – Simple Machines:
  Provides detailed information about all simple machines. Includes extra pages for children, with diagrams for each simple machine
  
• Simple Machines Learning Site:
  Information about simple machines. Includes illustrations and a quiz
  
• M ikids – Simple Machines: Information on each type of simple machine, and examples of tools that apply the principles of simple machines
  
• Simple Machines Web Quest: Gives information about simple machines and how they can be combined to create more sophisticated machines. Includes a series of simple machine experiments
  
• Cool School of Canada – 6 Simple Machines:
  Shows information and animations of simple machines
  
• Amazon.com – Simple Machines (Starting with Science):
  A children’s book on simple machines
  
• AllBookstores.com – Simple Machines:
  An extensive list of books on simple machines and their applications
  
• ProfessorBreaker.com – Simple Machines Book:
  Book on simple machines for school grades 1-3. Includes explanations for many basic scientific experiments
  
• Library Thing – Books on Simple Machines:
  A list of useful books on various topics that are related to simple machines
  
• Recommended Books for Teaching Simple Machines:
  Provides a list of books that are recommended for teachers of simple machines, ranging from basic applications to more sophisticated combinations
  
• Cool Science Projects – Simple Machines:
  Science projects that show the principles of simple machines
  
• EdHeads.com – Simple Machines Activities:
  Provides educational activities to help children understand the principles of simple machines. Includes a Teacher’s Guide
  
• KSU Educational Technology Center – Sites for Research and Information of Simple Machines:
  A list of links to sites that contain information about simple machines and their applications
  
• 42Explore.com - Simple Machines:
  Provides information about simple machines. Includes links to other websites

Almost every modern machine depends on smaller simple machines to function. Nevertheless, modern industrial machines are very sophisticated and expensive, and most of the companies that are just starting out have to resort to equipment leasing. An equipment lease will provide them with the machines they need to perform certain tasks, and it is a much more affordable option than purchasing brand new equipment. While many people overlook the importance of simple machines, they actually play a very important role in the technological as well as economical advancement of a society.