A pulley is a simple machine consisting of a wheel with a groove around its edge, designed to guide a rope, belt, or chain. A pulley helps lift, lower, or move loads by changing the direction of the force applied. Pulleys reduce the effort needed to move heavy objects, making work easier.

Pulley Types:

• Fixed Pulley – Attached to a structure, it only changes the direction of force but does not reduce effort.
• Movable Pulley – Moves with the load and reduces the amount of force needed.
• Compound Pulley – A combination of fixed and movable pulleys that provides both direction change and mechanical advantage.

Pulleys are commonly used in cranes, elevators, well buckets, and gym equipment.