The 6 Simple Machines
By: Kyra Pointer
Pulley
A pulley is a wheel on an axle that is designed to support movement of a cable or belt along its circumference. Pulleys are used in a variety of ways to lift loads.
Lever
A lever is a machine consisting of a beam or rigid rod pivoted at a fixed hinge, or fulcrum. It is one of the six simple machines identified by Renaissance scientists.
Wheel and Axel
Hero of Alexandria identified the wheel and axel as one of five simple machines used to lift weights. This is thought to have been in the form of the windlass.
Screw
A screw, or bolt, is a type of fastener characterized by a helical ridge, known as an external thread or just thread, wrapped around a cylinder.
Inclined Plane
An inclined plane is a flat supporting surface tilted at an angle, with one end higher than the other, used as an aid for raising or lowering a load.
Wedge
A wedge is a simple machine used to push two objects apart. A wedge is made up of two inclined planes.