Question

What is the expression for the mechanical advantage of an inclined plane in terms of its length $l$ and vertical height $h$.

• A. $M.A.=l/h^2$
• B. $M.A.=lh$
• C. $M.A.=h/l$
• D. $M.A.=l/h$

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

$M.A.=l/h$

An inclined plane is like a Ramp, which makes it possible to move a heavy load to a new height using less force (but over a longer distance).

In the above figure a inclined plane is shown with height $h$ and length $l$.

The $\text{mechanical advantage}$ of a inclined plane or a ramp can be found using this formula:

$\text{M. A.}=\frac{\text{length}}{\text{vertical height}}$
$\text{M. A.}=\frac{l}{h}$