The wheel and axle is a modification of the pulley in which the center pin (axle) is attached to the wheel. Turning the wheel through a long distance with a weak force turns the axle through a shorter distance with a strong force. Alternately, one can turn the axle with a strong force through a short distance and get the wheel to turn farther with a weak force.
Examples of wheels and axles:
- A steering wheel
- The wheels and axle on a cart
- The wheels and axle on a self-propelled vehicle (turned by a mousetrap and transfers power to the wheels)
- A knob on a stove
©2001 Jeff Goodman
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