Leah's Newsletter

🧠🔧 The Science Behind Pulleys – Simple Machines in Action! A pulley is a simple machine that helps us lift heavy things more easily. It uses a wheel and a rope or string to change the direction of a force.

🧵 What is a Pulley?

A pulley has: A wheel with a groove

A rope or cable that goes around the wheel When you pull one end of the rope, the other end moves in the opposite direction — lifting something up!

⚙️ How Does a Pulley Help? Imagine trying to lift a big bucket of water. If you just pull it straight up, it's hard. But with a pulley, you can pull down on the rope and the bucket goes up — which is much easier!

🧪 Why It Works – The Science! Pulleys work by spreading the force needed to lift something. There are 3 main types:

Fixed Pulley:

Doesn’t move

Changes direction of force

You pull down to lift up

Movable Pulley:

Moves with the load

Reduces the amount of force you need

Compound Pulley (also called a block and tackle):

Uses both fixed and movable pulleys

Makes lifting way easier

🧰 Real-Life Examples: Flagpoles

Elevators

Cranes

Theater curtains

Rescue operations

🎉 Try This at Home! Mini Pulley Project: Use a spool, some string, and a small bucket (or cup). Hang it on a hook or broomstick. Try lifting a toy by pulling on the string!