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Engineering · Unit 4 · Machines, mechanisms and control · Machines, mechanisms and control

Comprehend the function and purpose of basic machines, including - bicycle - car jack - crowbar.

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Question 1

A roadside assistance operator uses a scissor-type car jack to lift a 1,400 kg vehicle by turning a threaded rod. Explain the function of the car jack as a basic machine in this application.

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Question 2

Figure 1 shows a crowbar being used to lift a concrete slab. The worker applies a downward force of 180 N at the handle. Which principle best explains how the crowbar enables the worker to generate a much larger lifting force at the load end?

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Question 3

A cyclist pedals a bicycle with a front chainring of 52 teeth and a rear sprocket of 13 teeth. The crank arm length is 170 mm, and the rear wheel has a diameter of 680 mm. The cyclist applies a tangential force of 240 N at the pedal. Calculate the gear ratio and determine the theoretical forward force applied at the point of contact between the tyre and the road, assuming 100% transmission efficiency.

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Question 4

A cyclist uses the pedal system on a bicycle to climb a steep hill. Which statement best describes the primary mechanical function this system provides?

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Question 5

A mechanic uses a crowbar to remove a stubborn bolt from an engine block. The mechanic applies a force of 150 N at the end of the 1.2 m crowbar, positioned 0.05 m from the bolt. Explain the function of the crowbar as a basic machine in this scenario.

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Question 6

A cyclist changes from a large front chainring to a small front chainring while climbing a steep hill. Explain the function of the bicycle's gear system as a basic machine in this situation.

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Question 7

A mechanic uses a car jack with a lever arm length of 450 mm to raise a vehicle. The input force applied at the end of the lever arm is 180 N vertically downward. The pitch of the screw thread is 3.5 mm, and one complete rotation of the lever arm raises the vehicle by this amount. Calculate the mechanical advantage of the car jack and the theoretical load force that can be lifted, assuming 100% efficiency.

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Question 8

A construction worker uses a crowbar to lift a concrete slab. The crowbar is 1,200 mm long. The fulcrum is positioned 150 mm from the load end. The worker applies a downward force of 320 N at the effort end of the crowbar. Calculate the mechanical advantage of the crowbar and determine the maximum load force that can be lifted, assuming the crowbar operates as an ideal first-class lever.

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Question 9

A crowbar is used to lift a heavy concrete slab by placing the tip under the slab and pushing down on the opposite end. What is the primary mechanical advantage this tool provides?

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Question 10

Figure 1 shows a scissor jack used to lift a vehicle. The screw thread converts rotational motion into linear motion, raising the load platform. Which statement best describes the primary mechanical advantage principle that enables this machine to lift heavy loads with relatively small input force?

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