What Does a Wedge Do to Force

A wedge is used to cut or split apart objects. Force is applied to the thick end of the wedge, and the wedge applies force to the object along both of its sloping sides. This force causes the object to split apart.

How do wedges increase force?

The available power is limited by the effort of the person using the tool, but because power is the product of force and movement, the wedge amplifies the force by reducing the movement. This amplification, or mechanical advantage is the ratio of the input speed to output speed.

Does a wedge change force?

The wedge is a simple machine whose use throughout history has been understated. It changes the direction of a downward force to a sideways force.