Free interactive simple machines simulation. Explore simple machines hands-on online — great for whole-class or independent practice.
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Simple Machines
About this simulation
This simulation lets students try four classic simple machines in 3D. They choose the machine, set the load mass and their own effort, adjust the ratio setting, and optionally switch on friction. Readouts display the mechanical advantage, the effort needed to move the load, and the work in and work out. The central idea is that a machine trades force for distance but never creates energy. It suits physical science lessons where groups compare machines and explain why a smaller effort needs a longer push.
What students can explore
- Choose Lever, then raise Ratio setting and watch the Effort needed readout fall.
- Switch to Pulley and compare its Mechanical advantage with the lever at the same ratio.
- Lift your Your effort slider until it beats the Effort needed and the load starts to move.
- Turn Friction on and compare Work in with Work out.
- Try Inclined plane and Wheel and axle with the same Load mass and rank all four machines.
Learning objectives
- 1Identify four types of simple machine and how each reduces the effort needed.
- 2Calculate mechanical advantage as load divided by effort.
- 3Explain that work in equals work out for an ideal machine.
- 4Describe how friction lowers the efficiency of a machine.
Questions teachers ask
Is it free to use?
Yes, it is completely free. It runs in any modern browser, including whiteboards and tablets, with no sign-up.
What is mechanical advantage?
Mechanical advantage is the load divided by the effort. A value of 3 means you push with one third of the load weight, but you must move your effort three times as far, so the work stays the same.
Does a simple machine save work?
No. It makes the job easier by letting you use a smaller force over a longer distance. The work put in is the same as the work taken out, and with friction some is lost as heat.
How do I use the simple machines simulation?
Choose a machine from the Machine menu, then set Load mass, Your effort and Ratio setting. If your effort is greater than the Effort needed, the load moves.
Embed this simulation
Drop it into your LMS, blog, or class site — free.
<iframe src="https://kiwibee.io/en/simulations/simple-machines-3d-simulation/embed" title="Simple Machines | KiwiBee" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen style="width:100%;height:min(70vh,620px);min-height:420px;border:0;border-radius:16px"></iframe>Continue exploring
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