Which simple machine changes the direction of the force?

Which simple machine changes the direction of the force?

• A. Lever
• B. Pulley
• C. Inclined plane
• D. Screw

Answer: (B)

A pulley changes the direction of the force. It uses a rope over a wheel so when you pull on the rope, the tension pulls the load in a different direction—often upward—redirecting your effort. If you use a fixed pulley, the direction changes but the amount of force needed stays about the same (ignoring friction). If you use a movable pulley, you gain some mechanical advantage, but the force is still redirected along the rope. The other machines alter force magnitude or the path of movement in different ways, but redirecting the force is the defining feature of a pulley.

A pulley changes the direction of the force. It uses a rope over a wheel so when you pull on the rope, the tension pulls the load in a different direction—often upward—redirecting your effort. If you use a fixed pulley, the direction changes but the amount of force needed stays about the same (ignoring friction). If you use a movable pulley, you gain some mechanical advantage, but the force is still redirected along the rope. The other machines alter force magnitude or the path of movement in different ways, but redirecting the force is the defining feature of a pulley.