Wedge: A wedge is a simple machine used to
push two objects apart. A wedge is made up of two inclined
planes. These planes meet and form a sharp edge. This
edge can split things apart.
You probably use a wedge at lunch every day. A
fork is considered a wedge. A fork can be used to cut
or split food apart. Can you think of another wedge
you use to help you eat? (How about a knife?)
Examples of wedges:
Try this experiment!
nail, bolt, hammer, block of
Try to hammer the bolt into the
block of wood. Think about why a bolt can not be hammered into
the wood. Compare the nail with the bolt. Now try to
hammer the nail into the wood.
Things to think about:
-Why is the nail easier to hammer into the block
-What simple machine is a nail?
-Can you name some other simple machines with the
same characteristics as a nail?
The nail is a wedge so it is
easier to hammer into the wood. There is a sharp edge on the
nail because it has two inclined planes joined together. This
lets the nail separate the wood. return
This site is no longer being maintained, but will remain online for the use of educators.