Hobbies And Interests
Simple Machines
There are six simple machines: levers, pulleys, wedges, screws, inclined planes and the wheel and axle. Each simple machine performs a specific task that makes doing work easier. The inclined plane, for example, makes it easier to transfer an object from a lower elevation to a higher elevation, or vice-versa. Levers help pry items loose -- a crowbar is a common example. Pulleys make it easier to lift heavy objects. The wheel and axle aids in transportation. Screws help secure objects together and wedges help to split objects apart.
Compound Machines
When you combine two or more simple machines, you create a compound machine. A common example is a wheelbarrow. The wheelbarrow uses a wheel and axle and a lever to function. The two simple machines work in concert to make it easier to transport heavy objects across long distances. The effort required to lift the objects in the wheelbarrow is significantly less thanks in part to the leverage offered by the machine, and transporting the objects is easier thanks to the wheel and axle.
Grape-Smashers
You can create a grape-smasher using simple machines or by building a compound machine. For example, rolling a wheel and axle over the grape is a simple way to smash the grape using only one simple machine. Additionally, attaching a heavy block to a pulley, raising the block and dropping it onto a grape placed directly beneath the simple machine utilizes only one machine. If you attach a wedge to the pulley, you create a compound machine that splits grapes down the middle.
Material Ideas
You can build a grape-smasher using everyday household items. Paper towel rolls, string, kitchen utensils and wood scraps are just a few options. When building your machine, use your imagination. After you understand how each simple machine works, you can experiment on numerous ways to smash a grape. If you get an idea, build the machine and test it. If it does not work, tweak your design or start from scratch. The key is to learn and have fun.