Wheel and Axle

simple machines · physics · engineering

Two circles, one team. A wheel and axle is a big wheel attached to a smaller rod called an axle, and they always spin together as one piece.

Force multiplier. When you push on the big wheel, the small axle turns with extra force, making it easier to lift or move heavy loads.

Like a lever. Scientists think of it as a lever bent into a circle, with the axle acting as the fulcrum, or balancing point.

All around you. Doorknobs, steering wheels, and screwdrivers all use the wheel and axle idea to help you do work.