Suitable For
Grades 7
Difficulty
3
Time Required
<12 Hours
Supervision
Advised
What’s it about?
A ‘pulley’ is a simple ‘machine’ that is used to change the amount or direction of a pulling force to make work easier. A simple ‘pulley’ consists of only a rope that is looped around a support (usually a wheel). More complex pulley systems like a ‘two-pulley’ or ‘double pulley’ system can make your work even easier, but it comes at a cost…more rope! Let’s explore how a double pulley system works with this science experiment:
Topics covered
Pulley system, Gravity, Block and tackle
What will I need?
- 2x CHAIRS
- BROOM STICK
- SPOOL
- SMALL BUCKET
- ROPE (THIN & STRONG)
- WIRE COAT HANGER
Procedure (Method)
Unfortunately, this section is only available in the e-book version of the project.
How does it work?
Unfortunately, this section is only available in the e-book version of the project.
This science experiment works because the broomstick, rope and spools has been put together to form of a common device called a pulley system, a simple device that magnifies perceived effort or pull forces. Pulleys make it easier to lift heavy loads by changing the direction and / or amount of a pulling force. In this experiment, the double pulley system magnifies your force, but at a cost of using more rope to achieve this. In other words, to pull with less force, you must pull farther and therefore use more rope. You will pull with less force, but over a greater distance. You do the same amount of work, but it just feels easier!
Like the sound of it?
Why not check out the full worksheet in one of our popular e-books?
This particular science project can be found in any of the following Experiland e-books:
Experiland e-books contain detailed steps, including illustrations, to complete the science projects from start to finish.
