Analyze the Rube-Goldberg machine below. For each of the items listed in the following table, identify which type of simple machine it BEST represents by selecting the option from the correct column. You will only choose one simple machine for each identified item. Not all simple machines may be identified from the items provided.

Wedge
Pulley
Wheel/axle
Screw
Inclined plane
Lever
(E) Spoon

(G) Basket

(1) Towel

(K) Napkin (u have to put napkin into one of the categories)

(L) Pedal

1 answer

To analyze the items listed in your Rube-Goldberg machine and identify which type of simple machine they best represent, we can categorize them as follows:

| Item | Best Represents | |------------|----------------------| | (E) Spoon | Lever | | (G) Basket | Wheel/Axle | | (1) Towel | Inclined Plane | | (K) Napkin | Wedge | | (L) Pedal | Wheel/Axle |

Justifications:

  • E (Spoon): A spoon can act as a lever when used to lift or scoot objects, making it function in a similar way to a lever.
  • G (Basket): A basket can be seen as part of a wheel and axle system when it swings or rolls on a cart, functioning as a container that can be transported easily.
  • 1 (Towel): A towel may function similarly to an inclined plane depending on how it is folded or laid out to help move objects or liquids.
  • K (Napkin): A napkin can act as a wedge if it's used to hold objects in place or separate surfaces, although this interpretation is a bit less direct than others.
  • L (Pedal): A pedal serves as part of a wheel-and-axle system as it's typically used to turn a wheel, especially in bicycles or other machines.

Feel free to adjust any item based on specific context or functionality as needed!