The ratio of output force exerted by a machine to the input force applied to it. Mechanisms like levers, gears, and pulleys use this principle to trade distance for force, allowing a small effort over a long distance to move a heavy load over a short distance. Friction and bending losses mean the actual advantage is always lower than the theoretical geometric ratio.
Heard on the job
We rigged a block and tackle with a 4-to-1 mechanical advantage so two guys can hoist the engine block out.
Do not mix it up with
- IMA: IMA is the theoretical geometric ratio, while actual mechanical advantage accounts for friction losses.