Name:

Simple Machines - Inclined Planes Investigation

Set-Up the Inclined Plane:

-Stack books on the table.
-Place the wooden plank with one end on the table and one end on the books, making a ramp.
-Tape the edge of the wooden plank to the table.

Draw a diagram of the inclined plane set-up:

Measure the height of the books in centimeters.

How many centimeters high are the books? ________

Attach the wooden block to the spring scale with the hook. Lift up the block ____ centimeters
(the height of the books). Record each trial below:

Lifting Up ____ Centimeters

Trial Number Force In Newtons (N)

Trial 1

Trial 2

Trial 3

Average
Slide the wooden block (SMOOTH SIDE) up the entire ramp, measuring with the spring scale.
Record each trial below:

Lift Up ____ Centimeters by Sliding Along Ramp

Trial Number Force In Newtons (N)

Trial 1

Trial 2

Trial 3

Average

Slide the wooden block (SANDPAPER SIDE) up the entire ramp, measuring with the spring
scale. Record each trial below:

Lift Up ____ Centimeters by Sliding Along Ramp

Trial Number Force In Newtons (N)

Trial 1

Trial 2

Trial 3

Average

Which method of moving the wood block required the least amount of force? Use evidence from
your data to support your answer.

Remember, a simple machine makes work easier to do. How does the inclined plane make work
easier to do?
Draw a picture of someone using an inclined plane (such as a ramp) to make a job easier to do.

What variables can change in this experiment? Experiment, and write your observations below!