Inclined Planes
Screws
Wedges

What is an inclined plane?
 An inclined plane is a form of simple
machine that consists of a slanted
surface along which objects are
easier to push upward that to lift
straight up.
 A ramp and stairs are both examples
of inclined planes.

Length and Height of Inclined
Planes
 It is easier to move an object up a
more sloping (longer in length)
inclined plane than it is to move the
same object up a steeper (shorter in
length) inclined plane.
 Example: It would be easier to ride a
bike up a longer but shorter hill.
Steep
Sloping Hill
Hill

Why do you use an inclined plane?
 Incline planes reduce the effort
needed to carry something over a
long distance or to raise something
to a higher level.

Examples of Inclined Planes

More Examples of Inclined Planes

What is a screw?
 A screw is a simple machine
consisting of a pole or rod with an
inclined plane wrapped around it.
 Screws are used for holding things
together (wood screws), drilling
holes in things (drills), and lifting
things (car jacks).

Common Examples of Screws

What is a wedge?
 A wedge is another version of the
inclined plane. Usually it is thought
of as two inclined planes put back to
back.
 Wedges help us cut things, chop
things, and split things apart. They
are also used to hold things in place.
 Axes, knives, and scissors are all
wedges.

Common Examples of Wedges

Inclined Plane, Wedge, or Screw?

Name the Simple Machines Used