Wedge

Wedge: A wedge is a simple machine used to push two objects apart. A wedge is made up of two inclined planes. These planes meet and form a sharp edge. This edge can split things apart.

You probably use a wedge at lunch every day. A fork is considered a wedge. A fork can be used to cut or split food apart. Can you think of another wedge you use to help you eat? (How about a knife?)

Examples of wedges:

Knives
Axes
Forks
Nails

Try this experiment!

Materials:
    nail, bolt, hammer, block of wood
Procedure:
    Try to hammer the bolt into the block of wood. Think about why a bolt can not be hammered into the wood. Compare the nail with the bolt. Now try to hammer the nail into the wood.
Things to think about:
-Why is the nail easier to hammer into the block of wood?
-What simple machine is a nail?
-Can you name some other simple machines with the same characteristics as a nail?
Conclusion:
    The nail is a wedge so it is easier to hammer into the wood. There is a sharp edge on the nail because it has two inclined planes joined together. This lets the nail separate the wood. return

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