How does a pulley provide a mechanical advantage?

Question

anonymous · Answer

It changes the direction of the force. This can be an advantage in cases where you would have to pull something upwards, using only your muscles, because by changing the direction you can use your weight too. Be aware that you can't save work with a pulley.

anonymous · Answer

you do the same amount of work, but less force has to be applied over a greater distance.

anonymous · Answer

Both the above are right in a sense. When trying to lift something vertically, you can use one pulley to allow you to use your body weight. While it requires the same amount of force to move the object, it is generally more comfortable and feels easier.

However, you can also use multiple pulleys. When you use multiple pulleys, you have to pull the rope longer in order to get the object to travel the same distance as it does with one pulley. But since you are increasing the distance, you have to apply less force. Granted you have to apply that force for the greater distance, but it's generally more comfortable and feels easier because your not straining yourself.