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Wheel + Axle
The wheel and axle, a fundamental simple machine, enhances our ability to move and lift objects effortlessly. This mechanism consists of a larger circular component, known as the wheel, and a smaller rod-like structure, the axle, centrally attached. As the wheel is set in motion, both components rotate together, demonstrating its functional synergy. This ingenious invention finds application in various everyday items such as doorknobs, car wheels, and roller skates. Beyond reducing friction for easier object movement, the wheel and axle play a crucial role in transportation, addressing challenges that would otherwise be formidable. How does a Wheel + Axel help us?
A wheel and axle is like a big wheel connected to a small rod called an axle. It's easier to turn the big wheel because it travels a longer distance compared to the axle. Think of a screwdriver as an example. The handle of the screwdriver is bigger than the end, making it easier to turn. So, simple machines like wheel and axle help us do things more easily. |
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Friction + Gravitational Force
When we have to move a real heavy load, we have to use a great deal of force to push it because of friction and gravitational force. A wheel and axle fixes this problem in a jiffy. What is Friction? Force resisting the motion of the object on the ground. What is Gravitational force? Force that pulls the object to the ground. The “Wheel and axle” solves this problem! In this simple machine, a wheel is locked to a central axle and they rotate each other when a force is applied on either one of them. When we place a heavy load on the axle and push it, the rolling of the wheels reduces the friction to a large extent. However, the frictional force does not depend on the surface area of the object. The friction depends on its mass and what material it is made of. When there is less friction, it takes less force to move something. To learn more about Gravity + Friction visit the links below:
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Examples of Wheels + Axles
1. Car: the wheel and axle work together to help the car move. 2. Bicycle: the wheels rotate around the axle when riding a bike. 3. Rollerblades/Skates: the wheels spin around the axles for movement. 4. Wagon or cart: the wheels turn around the axles to carry loads. 5. Doorknob: turning the knob rotates the spindle (axle) to open or close a door. 6. Toy cars or trucks: the wheels spin around the axles for movement. 7. Lawnmower: the wheels rotate around the axles to move the lawnmower forward or backward. |
Try This!
Materials:
Cardboard tubes (from paper towels or wrapping paper)
Plastic bottle caps
Wooden dowels or sturdy straws
Craft materials (colored paper, markers, glue, tape)
Small objects (e.g., toy cars, small figurines)
Optional: Paints and brushes
Procedure:
Introduction (5 minutes):
Start by introducing the concept of wheels and axles to the the class. Explain that wheels and axles are simple machines that make it easier to move objects. Show examples like toy cars or wagons.
Setup (5 minutes):
Distribute cardboard tubes, plastic bottle caps, wooden dowels, and other craft materials.
Demonstrate how to create a simple wheel and axle by attaching a plastic bottle cap to each end of a wooden dowel using tape or glue.
Experiment (15 minutes):
Encourage the children to create their own "rolling objects" using the provided materials.
Let them experiment with different combinations of wheels and axles to create unique rolling toys.
Have them test their creations by rolling them on a smooth surface.
- Experiment: "Rolling Fun with Wheels and Axles"
Materials:
Cardboard tubes (from paper towels or wrapping paper)
Plastic bottle caps
Wooden dowels or sturdy straws
Craft materials (colored paper, markers, glue, tape)
Small objects (e.g., toy cars, small figurines)
Optional: Paints and brushes
Procedure:
Introduction (5 minutes):
Start by introducing the concept of wheels and axles to the the class. Explain that wheels and axles are simple machines that make it easier to move objects. Show examples like toy cars or wagons.
Setup (5 minutes):
Distribute cardboard tubes, plastic bottle caps, wooden dowels, and other craft materials.
Demonstrate how to create a simple wheel and axle by attaching a plastic bottle cap to each end of a wooden dowel using tape or glue.
Experiment (15 minutes):
Encourage the children to create their own "rolling objects" using the provided materials.
Let them experiment with different combinations of wheels and axles to create unique rolling toys.
Have them test their creations by rolling them on a smooth surface.
Questions/Discussion
- Describe a time when you needed to push something heavy.
- What kinds of things do you use that have wheels?
- How did you make your rolling toy move?
- What happens when you change the size of the wheels or the length of the axle?
- Can you make your rolling toy go faster or slower?
- Why do you think wheels and axles are useful for moving things?
Family Connection
- Ask families to explore the concept of wheels and axles at home by identifying them in everyday objects like toy cars, strollers, or carts.
- Encourage parents to help their children create more advanced rolling toys using recycled materials found at home.
- Have the children measure the distance their rolling toys travel and compare the results.
- Prompt families to go on a "wheel hunt" around the house or neighborhood and create a collage or drawing of the different wheels and axles they find.
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