Changing direction of force

Principle

The students observe the force that needs to be applied when lifting a mass with the aid of a fixed pulley and notice that the force that needs to be applied when using a fixed pulley is the same as the force that needs to be applied for lifting the mass straight up. They realise that the force that needs to be applied cannot be reduced with this set-up. However, depending on the specific application, the task of transporting the mass can be facilitated by changing the direction of force.

Benefits

• Experiment guides are very easy to understand, especially for younger students
• Associated competences are directly linked to the experiments
• Curriculum compatible
• Fit for the future: implementation of tablets possible