
Machines help us do work more easily. They make lifting, pushing, pulling, or cutting things simpler by changing the way force is used.
There are simple machines — tools with few or no moving parts that make work easier.
One example is the inclined plane, like a ramp, which lets us move heavy objects up or down with less effort.
A lever is another simple machine. It helps lift things using a long bar and a pivot point called a fulcrum.
A wheel and axle makes moving or turning things easier, like in a rolling cart.
The pulley uses a wheel and rope to lift loads. A wedge helps cut or split things, like the blade of an axe.
Gears are special types of wheels with teeth. When one gear turns, it moves another gear. Gears can change the direction of motion, increase speed, or add power. They're often used in clocks, bikes, and machines to control how things move.
And a screw is a twisted inclined plane that holds things together or lifts materials.
When we combine two or more simple machines, we get a compound machine. These machines work together to do more complicated tasks. A can opener uses a wheel and axle, a wedge, and a lever. A crane might use pulleys and levers. And a bicycle combines wheels, axles, levers, and pulleys—all working together to help us move with ease.
Machines, whether simple or compound, are all around us. They help us every day—making work easier, faster, and sometimes even more fun.