A inclined plane

Inclined Planes

An inclined plane is basically a ramp or anything slanted. Miners used inclined planes for ramps to pull wagons up over rough ground. Other simple machines, like pulleys, can help pull wagons up a ramp.

A inclined plane, helps to move heavy objects by lessening the force, but increases the distance. Friction is one problem with using a ramp (incline plane) to move heavy objects.

We use stairs or ramps to walk up and down. If an incline is at a steep angle, steps are cut into the incline to make it easier for us. Ramps are used in moving vans, for wheelchair access and on loading docks.

A shovel, wheelbarrow, hockey stick, wooden bat and tweezers are also levers, and the fulcrum is located as follows:

Shovel and hockey stick - mid-point of the handle
Wheelbarrow - at the wheel
Bat - at the base of the handle

Tweezers - at the central join