ASVAB · Simple Machines (Levers, Pulleys, Gears)

A lever has a 6-foot effort arm and a 2-foot load arm. What is the mechanical advantage?

Correct answer

3

  1. A 4
  2. B 1
  3. C 2
  4. D 3

Why this is the answer

MA (lever) = effort arm ÷ load arm = 6 ÷ 2 = 3. A mechanical advantage of 3 means 1 pound of effort lifts 3 pounds of load.
Source: ASVAB MC, Levers

Practice more questions

This question is from our ASVAB Practice Tests practice test. Take the full practice test to test your knowledge across all Simple Machines (Levers, Pulleys, Gears) and other topics.

Take the Mechanical Comprehension practice test →

About this topic: Simple Machines (Levers, Pulleys, Gears)

Simple machines — levers, pulleys, gears, inclined planes, wheel-and-axle, screws — are the heart of Mechanical Comprehension. Each question comes down to mechanical advantage: how much the machine multiplies force, and the trade-off in distance. This is one of 23 Mechanical Comprehension questions on simple machines (levers, pulleys, gears), each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our ASVAB exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

Related questions