Simple Machines Calculators: Levers, Pulleys and Gears

Simple machines are the building blocks of mechanics, trading force for distance to make work easier. This set of physics calculators helps you analyze mechanical advantage in seconds, whether you are a student solving homework problems, an engineer checking a design, or a maker building a project.Find the force needed at a lever with the Lever Advantage calculatorCompute the load lifted by rope systems with Pulley AdvantageDetermine speed and torque relationships with Gear RatioAnalyze inclined threads with Screw AdvantageSolve classic two-mass dynamics with the Atwood Machine calculatorEach tool shows the formulas behind the results, so you can check your work and understand the physics, not just get an answer.

Atwood Machine

Calculate the acceleration and rope tension in an Atwood machine. Enter the two masses (kg or g) and gravitational acceleration to instantly solve this classic two-mass pulley system.

Lever Advantage

Calculate the mechanical advantage of a lever and the effort force needed to lift a load. Enter the effort arm, load arm, and optionally the load weight and the force you can apply.

Pulley Advantage

Enter the number of rope segments supporting your load to find the mechanical advantage of a pulley system. Optionally add the load weight, efficiency and lift height to get the required effort force and rope pull distance.

Gear Ratio

Calculate the gear ratio from the number of teeth, gear diameters, or measured speeds, and get the output speed, output torque, and power of a gear pair in one step.

Screw Advantage

Calculate the ideal mechanical advantage of a screw from its thread lead and handle radius. Enter the lever radius, thread pitch, and an optional applied force to see the axial force the screw can exert.