Combining Machines

Advantages multiply

An interactive lesson with 6 steps, about 5 minutes: you predict, drag and solve, with instant feedback on every answer. It runs in your browser and needs JavaScript.

What you’ll learn

• Compound machines chain simple machines together.
• Mechanical advantages multiply, and so do efficiencies.
• Shortening the load arm (cutting near the pivot) increases leverage.

Steps

1. Machines in series
2. Winch plus pulleys
3. Build a lifting rig
4. Real-world losses
5. Efficiencies multiply
6. Scissors