The Inclined Plane: Often referred to as a 'ramp' the inclined plane allows you to multiply your force over a longer distance. In other words, you exert less force but for a longer distance. You do the same amount of work, it just seems easier because you spread it over time.

The Wedge: A wedge works in a similar way to the inclinde plane, only it is forced into an object to prevent it from moving or to split it into pieces. A knife is a common use of the wedge.

The Screw: The screw is really just an inclined plane wrapped around a rod. It too can be used to move a load (like a corkscrew) or to 'split' and object (like a carpenter's screw).

The Lever: The lever is simply a bar supported at a single point called the fulcrum. The positioning of the fulcrum changes the mechanical advantage of the lever. Look at how you can manipulate the position of the fulcrum relative to the heavier weight to lift the 200g mass with only 100g of force...

The Wheel and Axle: Any large disk (the wheel) attached to a small diameter shaft or rod (the axle) can give you mechanical advantage. Turning a screw with a screwdriver is a simple example of a wheel and axle. Can you think of others we use everyday?

The Pulley: A pulley is any rope or cable looped around a support. A very simple pulley system would be a rope thrown over a branch to hoist something into the air. Often, pulleys incorporate a wheel and axle system to reduce the friction on the rope and the support.