Leverage - Efficiency

Efficiency

For an ideal machine, the two equations can be combined, indicating that the force exerted IN to such a machine (denominator of first ratio) multiplied by the distance moved IN (numerator of second ratio) will equal the force exerted OUT of the machine multiplied by the distance moved OUT (i.e., work IN equals work OUT).

As an ideal example, using a block and tackle with six ropes, and a 600 pound load, the operator would be required to pull the rope six feet, and exert 100 pounds of force to lift the load one foot. Both equations show that the MA is six. In the first equation, 100 pounds of force IN results in 600 pounds of force OUT. The second equation calculates only the ideal mechanical advantage (IMA) and ignores real world energy losses due to friction and other causes. Subtracting those losses from the IMA or using the first equation yields the actual mechanical advantage (AMA). The ratio of AMA to IMA is the mechanical efficiency of the system.

There are two types of mechanical advantage: ideal mechanical advantage (IMA) and actual mechanical advantage (AMA).

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