Question

How is the mechanical advantage related to the velocity ratio for an ideal machine?

• A. Mechanical advantage is equal to the velocity ratio.
• B. Mechanical advantage is always greater than the velocity ratio.
• C. Mechanical advantage is always less than the velocity ratio.
• D. Mechanical advantage can be greater/ less than the velocity ratio.

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Mechanical advantage is equal to the velocity ratio.

An ideal machine is free from any friction and its efficiency is 100% or 1.
The efficiency of a machine is defined as the ratio of mechanical advantage and velocity ratio i.e.,
Efficiency $\left(\eta \right)$ = $\frac{\text{Mechanical advantage (MA)}}{\text{Velocity ratio (VR)}}$
Since in an ideal machine, efficiency = 1
So, Mechanical advantage (MA) = Velocity ratio (VR)