Simple Machines
No. 4 of The Explorer’s Library
Explore the playful side of physics.
Discover how simple machines work
Use a lever, screws, wheels and axles, inclined planes, wedges, and pulleys to send satellites into orbit, split an iceberg, make music, and more!
Conduct your own experiments
Change each machine and see what happens: can a scooter travel as fast and far as a bike? How many pulleys do you need to lift a spaceship?
Investigate invisible forces
See how each machine changes the direction, distance, or strength of your force. How do they make it easier to destroy the castle or lift a fish tank?
Learn in 40+ languages
Interactive labels in 40+ languages, including Chinese, Russian, German, French, Spanish, Japanese — and more!
Meet the artist
James Gilleard is an illustrator and animator, based in London. He loves cartoons from the 1950s, birds, dinosaurs, robots, 1960s cars, and loads of other rubbish. His inspirations for Simple Machines included the artist Mary Blair’s work. Learn more about James in our interview.
Kid tested
Tinybop apps are rigorously tested for and by kids ages 4+.
Play & learn
Our apps support Next Generation Science Standards. Teachers, get more info here.
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