What is a pulley? - Magnets and Forces - Year 3

A pulley is a simple machine that can be a great help when you need to lift heavy objects. It consists of a wheel on a shaft or axle, with a groove along the edges to guide a rope, cord, or chain. When you pull on one end of the rope, the wheel turns, and the load attached to the other end is lifted with less effort than if you were to lift it directly. This clever device can significantly reduce the amount of force required to move an object, making tasks that involve lifting and moving heavy loads much more manageable.

The block and tackle system is an advanced form of a pulley, utilising multiple wheels and ropes to further decrease the effort needed to lift an object. Pulleys are not just historical artifacts; they are widely used in modern machinery. You might find pulleys in action in various settings, such as in shopping centres with their elevators, during a stroll where construction cranes are at work, or even at school in the gym equipment. By understanding how pulleys work, you can appreciate the role of forces and mechanics in everyday life, making it easier to recognise the importance of this simple yet powerful tool.