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ASVAB · Simple Machines (Levers, Pulleys, Gears)

How does an inclined plane (ramp) make lifting a heavy object easier?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

It reduces the force needed by spreading the work over a longer distance

  1. A It makes the object lighter permanently
  2. B It reduces the object's weight
  3. C It removes gravity
  4. D It reduces the force needed by spreading the work over a longer distance

Why this is the answer

An inclined plane (ramp) makes raising a heavy object easier by reducing the force needed to move it — but over a longer distance. Instead of lifting the full weight straight up, you push it up the gentler slope with less force, though you must move it farther. The total work (force × distance) is about the same (ignoring friction), but the reduced force is easier to apply. This is the mechanical advantage of a ramp: a longer, gentler ramp requires less force than a short, steep one. The inclined plane is one of the basic simple machines that trade force for distance.
Source: ASVAB MC, Inclined Plane

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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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