Question

The mechanical advantage of a machine is always greater than 1. TRUE OR FALSE

Answer 1

Answer: False

Explanation:

The Mechanical Advantage ($M_{A}$) of a machine is an adimensional quantity defined as the ratio of the output force $F_{out}$and the input force $F_{in}$:

$M_{A}=\frac{F_{out}}{F_{in}}$

It is important to note that $M_{A}$ can be equal to 1, greater than 1 or less than 1:

-When $F_{out} = F_{in}$,  $M_{A}=1$

-When $F_{out} > F_{in}$,  $M_{A}>1$ This type of machines make task easiers

-When $F_{out} < F_{in}$,  $M_{A}$