If a ramp has a height of 3 meters and a length of 6 meters, what is its mechanical advantage?

• A. 1
• B. 1.5
• C. 2
• D. 3

Answer: (C)

To determine the mechanical advantage of a ramp, also known as an inclined plane, you can use the formula for mechanical advantage, which is the ratio of the length of the ramp to the height of the ramp. In this case, the length of the ramp is 6 meters and the height is 3 meters.

Mechanical advantage (MA) is calculated as follows:

MA = Length of ramp / Height of ramp

MA = 6 meters / 3 meters

MA = 2

This means that the ramp allows you to lift a load with less effort than lifting it vertically, effectively doubling the mechanical advantage you gain due to the longer inclined plane. By using the ramp, you are able to exert less force over a greater distance, which is a fundamental principle behind simple machines like ramps. Thus, the mechanical advantage of the ramp, which allows for easier lifting of heavy loads, is 2.