In a mechanical advantage system, which pulleys create the mechanical advantage?

In a mechanical advantage system, traveling pulleys, also known as movable pulleys, are the primary components that create mechanical advantage. Their design allows the load to be shared between the pulley and the user, effectively reducing the amount of force needed to lift an object. When a force is applied to the rope in a system with a traveling pulley, it moves along with the load, which means that the effort required to lift the load is decreased proportionately to the number of segments of rope supporting the load.

This contrasts with fixed pulleys, which do not create mechanical advantage because they only change the direction of the applied force without increasing the lifting ability. Similarly, sheave pulleys are typically used as a wheel within a pulley system and also do not contribute directly to mechanical advantage. Guide pulleys serve to direct cables or ropes rather than provide lifting assistance and do not facilitate mechanical advantage.

Thus, traveling pulleys are essential for achieving mechanical advantage in a pulley system, allowing users to lift heavier loads with less effort than would otherwise be needed.