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ASVAB · Simple Machines (Levers, Pulleys, Gears)

What is the main advantage of using a system of multiple pulleys?

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Correct answer

It reduces the amount of force needed to lift a load (provides mechanical advantage)

  1. A It reduces the amount of force needed to lift a load (provides mechanical advantage)
  2. B It speeds up the lift only
  3. C It has no effect
  4. D It makes the load heavier

Why this is the answer

A system of MULTIPLE PULLEYS reduces the FORCE needed to lift a load by providing MECHANICAL ADVANTAGE. ASVAB Mechanical Comprehension tests pulleys. A single fixed pulley just changes the direction of force (no force reduction). Adding movable pulleys (a block and tackle) reduces the force needed — but you must pull the rope a greater distance (trade-off: less force over more distance). The mechanical advantage roughly equals the number of rope segments supporting the load. Understanding that pulleys reduce required force is commonly tested.
Source: ASVAB Mechanical Comprehension — Pulleys

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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.

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