6

Lesson 6 of 84 ยท Motion and Forces

Experiment

Simple Machines: The Lever

What You'll Learn

Simple machines make work easier by changing the direction or amount of force needed. The six simple machines are lever, pulley, inclined plane, wedge, screw, and wheel and axle.

Key Words

  • momentum
  • acceleration

Materials Needed

  • cardboard
  • marbles
  • paper clips
  • rubber bands
  • blocks

Safety First

  • Adult supervision recommended.
  • Do not taste any materials.
  • Wear safety goggles when mixing liquids.

Steps

Step 1 โ€” Read

Read about Motion and Forces and write down three key facts.

Step 2 โ€” Do

Build a simple motor using a battery, magnet, wire, and paper clip supports. Observe how electromagnetic forces create rotation.

Step 3 โ€” Observe

Compare the before and after states.

Step 4 โ€” Record

Write your conclusion: did the results match your hypothesis? What would you change next time?

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

Which is NOT a simple machine?