Physics

Pulley Calculator

Find the effort to lift a load with a pulley system.

Calculated Output

Effort force (N) 250

Mechanical advantage 4

Formula: effort = load ÷ number of supporting ropes

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Values used:

2. Load = 1,000 N

3. Supporting rope segments = 4

5. Effort force = Load / Supporting rope segments = 1,000 / 4 = 250N

6. Mechanical advantage = 4

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The math behind it

effort = load ÷ number of supporting rope segments (the ideal mechanical advantage).

1000 N over 4 ropes → 250 N effort.

Catch?

You must pull the rope 4× as far (work is conserved).