Module 4

Lab 1.15

Lesson 1.13
Lesson 1.14
Lesson 1.15
Lesson 1.16
Lab 1.13
Lab 1.14
Lab 1.15
Lab 1.16
Project 4

Module 1

Module 2

Module 3

Physics Lab 1.15 Pulley Systems

Pulleys can be used to change the direction of a force or to gain mechanical advantage. If the pulley moves with the load, the mechanical advantage is increased. In this lab we investigate the mechanical advantage produced by systems of pulleys.

Getting Started

Carry out the experiment using the method illustrated in the video presentation. See also the instructions below. Record the data from the experiment in the table provided and perform the calculations needed to complete the table.

Experiment 1.15.1 Pulley Systems

The purpose of this experiment is to determine the relationship between the number of movable pulleys in a system and the mechanical advantage produced by such systems.

Materials and Equipment

• Pulleys
• String
• Weight – 500g
• Spring balance
• Board to mount pulleys
• Small blocks of wood with holes drilled through them.
• Grease

Procedure

1. Measure the weight of the load that will be used. This should have amass of between 400 and 1000 grams.
2. Construct systems of pulleys as illustrated in the video lesson
3. Measure the mechanical advantage of each system by measuring the force needed to lift the weight compared with the weight of the load.
4. Repeat the experiments using blocks and lubricated string.
5. Compare the efficiency of the pulley system with a similar system using greased blocks.

Results

Record the results of the experiments in the following table.

Mass of load = …………grams. Weight of load = ……………N