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The Six Simple Machines

What are the characteristics of the six simple machines?

There are six types of simple machines, each with its own function. Click on each image below for a description and some everyday examples of the machine.

Question

Why are simple machines used?

Simple machines do at least one of two things: alter the magnitude of the force needed or change the distance the force is applied. For a machine to be handy, it has to have some sort of mechanical advantage.