Which expression allows you to determine the mechanical advantage of an inclined plane?

A. height of plane / input force

B. length of plane / input force

C. length of plane / height of plane

D. height of plane / length of plane

(C) length / height of the plane

Explanation:

The mechanical advantage of an inclined plane can be determined using different variables. In this case, the geometry of the setup is relevant. The advantage is proportional to the length of the plane, and inversely proportional to the height: it is the ratio (length) / (height) of the plane. For example, given a desired, fixed height, a long inclined plane gives you a bigger mechanical advantage than a short inclined plane. In this example, pushing an object up the long plane will require a smaller force, than it would on the short plane.

Strictly speaking, (D) would also "allow you to determine the mechanical advantage" because you could simply invert the ratio listed under (D). However, (C) is the best, direct, answer.