Education Technology


Inclined Plane

Activity Overview

In this lesson, students explore an inclined plane as an example of a simple machine.

Objectives

  • Describe an inclined plane as a simple machine
  • Calculate the mechanical advantage of different inclined planes
  • Use the formula for applied force on an inclined plane

Vocabulary

  • acceleration due to gravity
  • inclined plane
  • mass
  • simple machine
  • work

About the Lesson

In this simulation, students explore an inclined plane as an example of a simple machine. Because of its mechanical advantage the force required to push an object up a ramp is easier than lifting it straight up, even though the overall amount of energy required is the same.