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Grade9 Technology Week4 Notes

This document provides an overview of pulleys, explaining their function as simple machines that aid in lifting heavy objects by changing the direction of force and reducing effort. It distinguishes between fixed and moveable pulleys, detailing their mechanical advantages and applications. Additionally, it introduces the block and tackle system, which combines both types of pulleys for greater force multiplication.

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9 views2 pages

Grade9 Technology Week4 Notes

This document provides an overview of pulleys, explaining their function as simple machines that aid in lifting heavy objects by changing the direction of force and reducing effort. It distinguishes between fixed and moveable pulleys, detailing their mechanical advantages and applications. Additionally, it introduces the block and tackle system, which combines both types of pulleys for greater force multiplication.

Uploaded by

andilezakhele619
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

GRADE 9 TECHNOLOGY NOTES – WEEK 4

MECHANICAL SYSTEMS AND CONTROL: PULLEYS

What is a Pulley?

A pulley is a simple machine made of a wheel with a groove and a rope or cable. Pulleys help people lift or
move heavy objects more easily.

Why Do We Use Pulleys?

Pulleys help to change the direction of force, reduce effort, lift heavy objects safely, and multiply force.

Important Terms

Load: The object being lifted.


Effort: The force used to lift the load.
Mechanical Advantage (MA): Shows how much easier a machine makes work.

Fixed Pulley

A fixed pulley stays in one place and changes the direction of force. Mechanical Advantage = 1. It does not
reduce the weight of the load.

Advantages of a Fixed Pulley

• Easier to pull down than lift upward.


• Simple to use.
• Useful for lifting objects above your head.

Moveable Pulley

A moveable pulley moves together with the load. It reduces the effort needed to lift heavy objects.
Mechanical Advantage is greater than 1.

Advantages of a Moveable Pulley

• Makes lifting easier.


• Reduces effort.
• Useful for heavy objects.
Block and Tackle System

A block and tackle system uses fixed and moveable pulleys together to lift very heavy loads using less
effort.

Mechanical Advantage in a Block and Tackle

Mechanical Advantage = Number of supporting ropes.

Force Multiplication

Force multiplication happens when a machine increases the force applied.

Direction of Force

A pulley can change the direction of force. Instead of lifting upward, you pull downward.

Real-life Examples

• Flag poles
• Wells
• Construction cranes
• Ship loading systems

Key Points to Remember

• Fixed pulleys change direction.


• Moveable pulleys reduce effort.
• More supporting ropes give greater mechanical advantage.

Comparison of Pulley Systems

Type Does it Move? Mechanical Advantage Main Function

Fixed Pulley No 1 Changes direction


Moveable Pulley Yes More than 1 Reduces effort
Block and Tackle Yes Depends on ropes Multiplies force

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