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  4. Compound Pulley

Compound Pulley

This setup is a compound pulley, which combine both fixed and moveable pulleys to increase the mechanical advantage.

In a pulley system, a wheel's job is to let the rope move freely. Here, this set up works with no wheels. The broom can act as the wheel since it's low-friction enough that the rope can easily move over it.

  1. Ages: 9 - 16

  2. <30 minutes

  3. A little messy

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Materials you'll need

Step-by-step tutorial

  • Step 1

    Set the broom between two chairs or tables and place the jug underneath.

  • Step 2

    Tie one end of the rope to the broom.

  • Step 3

    Thread the rope through the jug handle, then bring it over the broom.

  • Step 4

    Pull down on the rope to lift the jug. How hard do you have to pull?

  • Final result!

    Then bring the rope through the jug handle and over the broom one more time. How hard do you have to pull to lift the jug now?

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