Question

Compare the mechanical advantage of a ramp with a steep slant to that of a ramp with a less steep slant.

a) The steep slant has higher mechanical advantage
b) The less steep slant has higher mechanical advantage
c) Both have the same mechanical advantage
d) Mechanical advantage is not affected by the slant of the ramp

Answer 1

The ramp with the less steep slant has a higher mechanical advantage because it extends the distance over which the input work is applied, reducing the required force. the correct choice from the options would be: (b) The less steep slant has higher mechanical advantage.

Step-by-step explanation:

When comparing the mechanical advantage of two ramps, one with a steep slant and one with a less steep slant, we find that the ramp with the less steep slant has a higher mechanical advantage. The mechanical advantage of a ramp, which is an inclined plane, is calculated as the ratio of the length of the slope to the vertical height.

A less steep ramp extends the distance over which the input work (or effort force multiplied by the distance) is applied, thereby reducing the force required to lift an object. In contrast, a steeper ramp requires a greater force applied over a shorter distance. Hence, the correct choice from the options would be: (b) The less steep slant has higher mechanical advantage.