Compound Machines

Compound Machines is a 2013-2014 event for Division C. It can be considered the Division C equivalent of Division B's Simple Machines. Students will answer questions on simple and compound machines, and use a lever to determine an unknown mass. Students can bring their device and any other supplies for impound, a binder of Notes, and any calculator.

General
The event is split into 2 parts, the written test and the device. The test will include questions on basic concepts, calculations, and the history of compound machines. For the device testing, the supervisors provide a known mass and an unknown mass and the students will determine the unknown mass by using and adjusting a compound lever. Points will be awarded for accuracy and speed.

Terms
Machine: A mechanical device that improves or assists in labor using force inputted, and converts it do a different type of force or direction

Simple Machine: There are 6 Simple Machines. These are all different types of machines that change the input force to a different output. They are: '''1) levers 2) inclined planes 3) wedges 4) pulleys 5) wheels and axles 6) screw''' (these will be discussed further later on)

Compound Machine: A machine made up of more than one simple machine. A compound Machine can allow more complex machines and more complex outputs and functions. For example, a scissor combines three different simple machines. 1) Lever- The handle, 2) Wheel and Axle: Pin to attach both sides, 3) Wedge- Blade

Types of Machines
All concept questions will be limited to the topics of levers, inclined planes, wedges, pulleys, wheels and axles, and screws. See the Simple Machines page for more in-depth information.