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Pulley Definition

A pulley is a wheel and rope machine that can change the direction of a force. For example, pulling down lifts an object upwards.

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Simple Machines

LESSON MATERIALSmove

Fun Facts

  • A flagpole uses a pulley to raise the flag.
  • A pulley can move things from a low area to a higher one.
  • Sometimes using a pulley to pull down is easier because the force of gravity helps!

Why Do We Need To Know About Pulley

Learning about pulleys helps us understand how some tools make our work easier, and why they’re important for many jobs. A pulley is a wheel that helps change the direction of a force, which can make lifting heavy things easier by using gravity’s help.

This idea is used in daily life, like when raising a flag. It can also be used in jobs like construction for lifting materials up, or in theater to change the set. Pulleys are useful and important in many kinds of work because they help us do tough tasks more easily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Describe a simple machine.
Simple machines have few or no moving parts. They make work easier by changing the direction of a force or by changing the amount of force needed.
Why are simple machines important?
Simple machines can help make work easier. Without simple machines you might not be able to move something really heavy.
How does a pulley help lift things?
A pulley uses a wheel to change the direction of a force. As you pull down, the object goes up. Sometimes pulling down is easier because the force of gravity helps.
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