Question

How do simple machines make work easier?

Answer 1

Hint: A simple machine is a mechanical device which uses an input force to give a greater output force. The input force does a work on the output load. A simple machine can make our work easier by using some techniques; this makes it easier to increase the output.

Complete answer:
A simple machine is a mechanical device which is used to change the direction of magnitude of force. In a simple machine, a single force is applied against the force of a load and the force applied is used to do work on the load. The machine can increase the output force by decreasing the displacement of the load.
In a simple machine, the mechanical advantage is the ratio of output force to the input force. The different types of simple machines are lever, wheel and axle, pulley, inclined plane etc.
There are three ways through which the simple machine makes work easier-
We know that the work done is the product of force and displacement, thus, the distance through which the force is applied can be increased to make work easier.
It can also be done by changing the direction of force or by taking the product of force and the velocity with which energy is being applied.
Therefore, the work done can be made easier by increasing distance for force applied, changing the direction of force or by taking product of force and velocity with which energy is applied.

Note:
Wheel and axle simplifies work by increasing distance. If two or more pulleys are used, load can be lifted more easily while an inclined plane changes direction as well as increases distance. Mechanical advantage is used to analyse the performance of a simple machine. Simple machines are the basis of every complex machine.