Question 1: Explain the purpose of a gear train in a mechanical system. How does it affect the movement and force transferred?

Answer: A gear train is used to transmit rotational motion and force between gears. It can change the speed and torque of the output, allowing for increased force or speed depending on gear ratios.

Question 2: Describe how a lever works to amplify force. Include the key components involved.

Answer: A lever amplifies force by rotating around a fulcrum. The effort is applied at one end, and the load is lifted at the other. The position of the fulcrum determines the mechanical advantage.

Question 3: Identify and briefly explain two common types of mechanical linkage systems used in machinery.

Answer: A common linkage system is a 'crank and slider,' which converts rotary motion into linear motion. Another is a 'four-bar linkage,' which transmits motion and forces in a specific path.

Question 4: Sketch a simple gear train with three gears, showing the direction of rotation for each gear. Label the gears G1, G2, and G3.

Answer: A correct sketch would show three gears in mesh; G1 driving G2, G2 driving G3. The direction of G2 and G3 rotation will be opposite to G1 and G2, respectively.

Question 5: Design Brief: You need to create a mechanical clock that uses a gear train to control the speed of the seconds hand. Sketch a basic plan of your gear system, indicating the purpose of each gear.

Answer: The sketch should depict a series of gears with the main gear connected to the power source, a gear ratio designed to slow down rotation, and an output gear linked to the seconds hand. Each gear's purpose is to reduce speed and increase torque as needed.

Question 6: Describe the function of a cam in a mechanical system. How does it convert rotary motion into linear or reciprocating motion?

Answer: A cam is a rotating or sliding piece in a mechanical system that pushes a follower to produce linear or reciprocating motion, converting rotary movement into a different form of movement.

Question 7: Sketch a simple linkage mechanism that could be used to convert rotary motion into an up-and-down movement. Label major parts.

Answer: A correct sketch includes a crank connected to a connecting rod, which is attached to a sliding component (like a piston or follower). The crank rotates, moving the connecting rod back and forth to produce vertical motion.

Question 8: Identify two advantages of using mechanical systems with gears and linkages over purely manual operation.

Answer: Mechanical systems can increase force (mechanical advantage) and control movement more precisely, reducing manual effort and enabling complex motions.

Question 9: Explain what a 'ratio' in a gear system means and how it affects the output speed and torque.

Answer: The ratio is the relationship between the sizes of gears or their number of teeth. A higher gear ratio reduces speed but increases torque, while a lower ratio increases speed but reduces torque.

Question 10: Design Brief: Your task is to create a mechanism that lifts a small weight using minimal effort. Sketch a concept for a lever system that could achieve this, including the position of the fulcrum and effort point.

Answer: The sketch should show a lever with the fulcrum positioned closer to the load to maximize effort advantage. The effort point should be placed at the opposite end, with the load near the fulcrum for efficient lifting.