Pulleys

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In this activity, learners build inexpensive pulley assemblies from pulley wheels used for sliding screen door replacement or from clothesline spreaders. Learners will investigate pulley behavior and become familiar with the language and concepts of simple machines as applied to pulleys (e.g., effort, resistance, mechanical advantage, work, efficiency, etc.).

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Learning Time:
1 to 2 hours
Estimated Materials Cost:
$10 - $20 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 11 - 18
Resource Type:
Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Stand to hang the pulley system (PVC or ring stand)
  • 4 pulleys
  • At least 3 jumbo paper clips
  • 2 lengths of 3/16 in dowels
  • 4 mini-binder clips (1/2 in)
  • 1 medium binder clip (1 1/4 in)
  • steel washers (3/8)
  • At least 3 meters of string
  • Scissors
  • 2 clothesline spreaders cut and fastened together to make two double pulleys
  • 6 S hooks (aka 8 hooks)
  • Cable tie
  • 500 mL water bottle with brass cup hook screwed into cap
  • Water
  • Paper clip
  • Plastic bag
  • Steel washers
  • Balance

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Mechanical Engineering
  • Mathematics
    • Algebra
      • Equations and Inequalities
      • Variables and Expressions
    • Measurement
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process
      • Problem Solving
  • Physical Sciences
    • Energy
      • Work and Machines
    • Motion and Forces
      • Machines
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations
      • Communicating Results

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Rathjen, Don

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Exploratorium, 2009