The sloping surface of the inclined plane supports part of the weight of the object as it moves up the slope. As a result, it takes less force to move the object uphill. The trade-off is that the object must be moved over a greater distance than if it were moved straight up to the higher elevation. On the other hand, the output force is greater than the input force because it is applied over a shorter distance. Like other simple machines, the ideal mechanical advantage of an inclined plane is given by
Mark loved restoring old historic houses. His latest house however was going to be a real challenge. The second floor was badly damage due to a leaking roof but he would not even be able to begin repairs until he replaced the collapse stairs so he could get materials onto the second floor. He decided that he would bring the new staircase out further than the original one so that the steps would not be as steep.
Did the original steps require more or less force to move material than new steps will?