Get a Lift!

A pulley uses a wheel and a rope, cord, or chain. Pulleys help us lift things that are heavy. Here are some examples of pulleys at work.
Setting Sail

Sailboats use pulleys. Pulleys help raise the sails, turn the boat, and more.
Heavy Load

Pulleys help us build. Cranes
crane
FEIFEI CUI-PAOLUZZO—GETTY IMAGES
a large machine used for moving heavy objects
(noun)
The crane lifted construction materials to the top of the building.
use pulleys. So do other construction machines.
Safety First

A rock climber wears a harness
harness
MINT IMAGES/GETTY IMAGES
a set of straps for fastening something
(noun)
Audrey put the harness on the horse.
. It is attached to a person with a pulley. This helps keep the climber from falling if he or she slips.
Top of the Slopes

A ski lift takes people up ski slopes. It is made of many pulleys. One of them is huge! Take a look at it here.
Did You Know?

This is what a pulley looks like up close. Pulleys make it easier to lift heavy things. Can you think of other everyday examples of pulleys?