When a single block, such as a handline, is used the force to lift the load will be _____.

• A. Greater
• B. Less
• C. Equal
• D. Unknown

Answer: (A)

When lifting with a pulley, how much effort you need depends on how many rope segments share the load and how much friction there is. A single block provides little to no mechanical advantage—the load is effectively carried by one rope segment, and you must pull with nearly the same force as the load, plus the losses from friction in the pulley and rope. That means the force you apply will be greater than the weight you’re lifting. If there were more rope segments sharing the load (a bigger block-and-tackle), the required force would drop, but with just a single block it ends up being more because of friction.