Final answer:
The actual mechanical advantage of Lever A is 0.5, which is calculated by dividing the resistance force of 20 pounds by the effort force of 40 pounds.
Step-by-step explanation:
The actual mechanical advantage (AMA) of Lever A can be calculated by taking the resistance force it overcomes and dividing it by the effort force applied to it. In this case, we use the formula:
- AMA = Resistance Force / Effort Force
Given that the effort force is 40 pounds and the resistance 20 pounds, we calculate the actual mechanical advantage as follows:
AMA = 20 lbs / 40 lbs = 0.5
This means that Lever A has an actual mechanical advantage of 0.5, indicating that the effort force is twice the magnitude of the resistance force overcome.