What is the formula for Mechanical Advantage (MA)?

The formula for Mechanical Advantage (MA) is defined as the ratio of the load force to the effort force. This means that mechanical advantage quantifies how much a machine amplifies force. In practical terms, it shows how much easier a task is made by using a machine compared to doing it without one.

When a machine provides a mechanical advantage greater than one, it allows a smaller effort force to lift a heavier load force. This is fundamental in understanding the performance of various simple machines, such as levers, pulleys, or inclined planes. The key concept here is that if you apply a smaller force over a greater distance, the machine has spread out the work done, making it easier to lift heavy objects.

To illustrate this, if you exert a force of 10 N while lifting a load of 50 N, the mechanical advantage is 50 N (load force) divided by 10 N (effort force), equaling 5. This indicates that the machine allows you to lift a load five times greater than your input effort.

In contrast, other formulas listed are either related to different principles or do not accurately represent the mechanical advantage concept. For example, the ratio of force out to force in may seem relevant but doesn't capture