Final answer:
Simple machines help multiply or change the direction of an applied force, facilitating easier work. An inclined plane multiplies distance, a screw and lever multiply force and distance and change direction, a wedge and wheel & axel multiply force, and a pulley multiplies distance and changes direction.
Step-by-step explanation:
Simple machines are fundamental devices that can multiply or augment a force, often changing the distance over which the force must be applied. The mechanical advantage (MA) is the ratio of the output force to the input force for any simple machine. Here is how each machine matches with the way they make work easier:
- Inclined plane: Multiplies distance (A)
- Screw: Multiplies force and distance and changes direction (D)
- Wedge: Multiplies force (C)
- Lever: Multiplies force and distance and can change direction (D)
- Wheel & Axel: Multiplies force (C)
- Pulley: Multiplies the distance and changes direction (B)
These mechanisms simplify tasks by reducing the input force needed or by changing the direction of the force, making it easier to perform work with less human effort.