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Hello
A pulley is used to change the direction of a force and under certain arrangements, distribute the tension forces caused by a weight. In the case of a zipline, the pulley is not used to change direction of forces; it is used to roll along the cable.
The way I see it, the pulley could be replaced by a rolling ball along the cable (for purely diagrammatic purposes).

Javier Rivera
Astronomy Programs Manager
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
2559 Puesta Del Sol
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
(805) 682-4711  ext. 173;   [log in to unmask]
http://sbnature.org/gladwin/3.html

-----Original Message-----
From: Informal Science Education Network [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Fournier, Kathy
Sent: Tuesday, May 10, 2011 2:43 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: science of ziplines

ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology Centers
Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related institutions.
*****************************************************************************

Hey all:

I need some help in settling a difference of opinion among my staff. We
are writing up the science of a zipline for a new exhibit and there is
some disagreement on whether or not the 2 simple machines involved are
an inclined plane (they slope of the wire) and a pulley OR an inclined
plane and a wheel and axle.

 

I know this group will have plenty of insight so bring it on!

 

Kathy Fournier

Associate Vice President of Education

McWane Science Center

200 19th Street North

Birmingham, AL 35203

205-714-8254

[log in to unmask]

 

 

 

 

 

 


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For information about the Association of Science-Technology Centers and the Informal Science Education Network please visit www.astc.org.

Check out the latest case studies and reviews on ExhibitFiles at www.exhibitfiles.org.

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