Simple Machines (Inclined Plane / Ramps) – Work

Work =Distance X Force

NO RAMP

1.  Lift the wooden block up to the top of 4 books.

2.  Use the spring scale to measure the force required to move it to the top.

______newtons

3.  Use the ruler to measure the distance from the table to the top of the 4 books in cm. ( Move the decimal 2 places to the left , when converting cm to m.)

______m

4. Find the amount of work done. Work = Force X Distance

______joules

INCLINED PLANE / RAMP

1.  Place a ramp on top of the 4 books. Pull the wooden block to the top of the ramp.

2.  Use the spring scale to measure the force required to move it to the top.

______newtons

3.  Use the ruler to measure the distance from the table, up the ramp to the top.

______m

4. Find the amount of work done. Work = Force X Distance

______joules

In which situation did you do more or less work?

In which situation did you use less force to do the work?

Repeat the steps for Inclined Plane / Ramp for 2, 3 and 4 blocks. Complete the table.

# of Wooden Blocks / Distance in meters
4cm = .04 m / Effort Force in newtons (N) / Work In joules (J)
W= D X F
1
2
3
4

What was the relationship between the number of blocks and the work required to move them up the ramp.

Graph the relationship between the amount of work and the number of blocks.

What are some real world examples of incline planes? Draw an example and then explain in words how an incline plane would reduce the amount of work required.