Question

What is a wedge? Give two examples.

Answer 1

Hint: In order to answer this question, we will go through the whole concept of wedge and also the mechanism of wedge. And then we will discuss the history of wedge and atlast we will discuss that wedge is used for what kind of machine.

Complete step-by-step solution:
A wedge is a portable inclined plane and one of the six simple devices with a triangular shape. It can be used to separate two things or sections of an object, hoist an object, or secure an object. It converts pressures applied to its blunt end into forces perpendicular to its sloped surfaces (normal). The ratio of the length of a wedge's slope to its breadth determines its mechanical advantage. A short wedge with a wide angle may complete a task more quickly, but it requires more force than a long wedge with a narrow angle.
On a flat, broad surface, the force is applied. This energy is transferred to the wedge's pointed, sharp end, and so the force is transferred.
Simply put, the wedge transmits energy and collects it at the pointed end, destroying the thing. In this technique, a thin area is subjected to a lot of pressure.
Wedges have been around for millennia. Originally, they were composed of basic stone. The hand axe (see also biface and Olorgesailie) is perhaps the earliest example of a wedge, which is formed by chipping stone, usually flint, to make a bifacial edge, or wedge. A wedge is a basic mechanism that converts the tool's lateral force and movement into the workpiece transverse splitting force and movement. The amount of power available is limited by the user's effort, but because power is the product of force and movement, the wedge magnifies the force by limiting mobility. The ratio of input to output speed is called the amplification, or mechanical advantage. For a wedge this is given by ${\displaystyle \frac{1}{\tan \alpha }}$ , where $\alpha$ is the tip angle. The faces of a wedge are modeled as straight lines to form a sliding or prismatic joint.
Single wedges include things like a door stopper and a chisel. A knife is another example of a double wedge that is significantly thinner than an axe. Because of their ability to cut, split, and, in the case of the nail, hold something together, all knives and nails are wedges.

Note:The wedge is considered one of the five simple machines, along with the lever, wheel and axle, pulley, and screw. For splitting wood, a wedge is employed. An object with a thin edge is called a wedge. When you push the wedge one way, it creates a sideways force.