A wedge is another type of simple machine. It is made up of two inclined planes joined back-to-back. Wedges are movable and used to split objects or force them apart. A thick short wedge will split things apart faster, but will require using greater force. A long, thin wedge will be easier to drive in, but will take more time to split something.
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As you can see, a wedge is made up of two inclined planes. The cutting part of a wedge can be very sharp. This simple machine must be used with great caution.
Take a look at the website linked below. Here you will find additional information about the wedge including examples of this simple machine and how it is used.
When you apply force to the dull edge of a wedge, it then transfers this force to the inclined surfaces. The mechanical advantage is based on the ratio of width to slope length; a short wedge with a wide angle requires more force than a long wedge with a narrow angle. Wedges lift heavy objects by separating them from the surface where the object rests. As the wedge moves under the object that is to be lifted, it slides up the sloped wedge side, lifting the weight.
We use wedges for many different things. Below are a few examples of how wedges are used in our everyday lives.
Examples of Wedges:
Putting it all Together:
Look at the website linked below. Read the information, look at the pictures and watch the short video on the screen. Then answer the questions that follow in your science journal. These will be discussed later on in class.