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Wheel and Axle

Physics | 7-14 yrs | Animation, Video

When we have to move a real heavy load, we have to use a great deal of force to push it because of friction and gravitational force. A wheel and axle fixes this problem in a jiffy. Learn about this simple machine, and see how it reduces the effort required to move certain objects through this fun and animated learning module.

When we have to move a real heavy load, we have to use a great deal of force to push it, because of:

What is Friction:

Force resisting the motion of the object on the ground.

What is Gravitational force:

Force that pulls the object to the ground.

The “Wheel and axle” solves this problem in jiffy! In this simple machine, a wheel is locked to a central axle and they rotate each other when a force is applied on either one of them.

When we place a heavy load on the axle and push it, the rolling of the wheels reduces the friction to a large extent. However, the frictional force does not depend on the surface area of the object. The friction depends on its mass and what material it is made of. When there is less friction, it takes less force to move something.

The effort needed to overcome the resistance, acting upon the axle is relatively small.

We see the wheel and axle setup in many of our day to day activities.

A longer motion at the edge of the wheel is converted to a shorter, more powerful motion at the axle.

We see the wheel and axle setup in many of our day to day activities.

In reverse, a short powerful force at the axle will move the wheel’s edge at a greater distance.

Activity:
Where do you see a wheel and axle around ou? Hint- one is in something you use to get from place to place.

For more such interesting Physics videos and articles visit our Physics for Kids category.

Comments

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