Physics
When does a machine act as
(a) a force multiplier
(b) a speed multiplier?
Can a machine act as a force multiplier and speed multiplier simultaneously?
Answer
(a) A machine acts as a force multiplier when the effort arm is longer than the load arm. The mechanical advantage in such cases is greater than 1.
(b) A machine acts as a speed multiplier when the effort arm is shorter than the load arm. The mechanical advantage in such cases is less than 1.
No, it is not possible for a machine to act as a force multiplier and speed multiplier simultaneously.
For a machine used as a force multiplier, effort < load while for a machine used to obtain a gain in speed, effort > load. Hence, it is not possible for a single machine to act as both, simultaneously.
Related Questions
Define the term velocity ratio. State its unit.
Define the term efficiency of a machine. Give two reasons for a machine not to be 100% efficient?
(a) State the relationship between mechanical advantage, velocity ratio and efficiency.
(b) Name the term that will not change for a machine of a given design.
State one reason why mechanical advantage is less than the velocity ratio for an actual machine.