Question 1: Define a mechanical system in your own words and give an example of one used in everyday life.

Answer: A mechanical system is a group of parts working together to perform a specific function, such as a bicycle gear system that allows the rider to change gears.

Question 2: Identify and describe the function of the following components in a mechanical system: a lever, a gear, and a pulley.

Answer: A lever is used to amplify force and move objects; a gear transmits torque and changes the direction of motion; a pulley redirects force and can help lift heavy loads more easily.

Question 3: Design Brief: You need to create a simple mechanical device that lifts a small object from the ground to a table height. What type of mechanical system would you use and why?

Answer: A simple pulley system would be suitable because it reduces the effort needed to lift the object and provides a clear mechanical advantage.

Question 4: Sketch a basic lever system that could be used to lift a small weight. Label the fulcrum, effort, and load.

Answer: A correct sketch should show a rigid bar (lever) with a fulcrum placed somewhere along its length, an effort applied on one end, and a load on the other end. The labels should clearly identify these parts.

Question 5: Explain how gears can be used to change the speed and direction of a moving part in a mechanical system.

Answer: Gears can increase or decrease rotational speed depending on their sizes; meshing gears can also reverse the direction of rotation, allowing control over how parts of a machine move.

Question 6: Identify three types of simple machines used in mechanical systems. Provide an example of each.

Answer: The three types are: lever (e.g., crowbar), pulley (e.g., flagpole pulley), and wheel and axle (e.g., steering wheel).

Question 7: Design Brief: A student wants to create a mechanism that opens and closes a small lid automatically. Which mechanical system could they use, and what are the key components involved?

Answer: They could use a linkage or gear system connected to a motor; key components include a motor, linkages, and possibly a cam to control movement.

Question 8: Plan and sketch a simple gear train that can increase the rotational speed from a small gear to a larger gear. Include labels for each gear size.

Answer: A correct plan should show two gears meshing, with the smaller gear turning the larger gear; the sketch should include the gear sizes and direction of rotation, with labels.

Question 9: Describe the advantages of using a mechanical system over a purely manual method for performing a task.

Answer: Mechanical systems can increase efficiency, reduce physical effort, and allow tasks to be performed more quickly or precisely.

Question 10: Identify a real-world example of a mechanical system that uses pulleys and describe how it works.

Answer: An elevator uses pulleys to lift and lower the cabin. The motor turns a pulley system that reduces effort needed to lift heavy loads and allows smooth movement.

Question 11: Design Brief: You are asked to create a simple mechanical toy that moves when a lever is pressed. Sketch your initial idea and label the main parts involved.

Answer: A suitable sketch would show a lever connected to a linkage or gear that, when pressed, causes a small movement in the toy, such as making a figure nod or a wheel spin. Labels should include the lever, linkage, and moving part.