Mechanical Systems & Mechanical Advantage is one of 9 topics in the Grade 8 Technology CAPS syllabus, covered across 3 lessons on Study Vault. Below are real practice questions from this topic with full worked answers.
Sample practice questions
Easy
1. What does a machine give you when it lets you do a job using less effort?
Mechanical advantage
Mechanical disadvantage
Electrical advantage
No advantage at all
Answer: Mechanical advantage — A machine gives mechanical advantage when it lets you do a job with less effort, by changing how the effort is applied.
Easy
2. Which of these everyday objects is an example of a wedge?
A door wedge
A bicycle wheel
A steering wheel
A shopping trolley wheel
Answer: A door wedge — A door wedge is a small wedge pushed under a door, using the splitting action of its thick-to-thin shape to jam the door in place.
Easy
3. Give ONE word for a ramp -- a wedge lying on its side that lets you push a heavy box up a gentle slope.
Answer: inclined plane — An inclined plane (a ramp) is a wedge lying on its side, letting you push a load up a gentle slope instead of lifting it straight up.
