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| Galileo Galilei |
After a little looking into it a bit further, it seems props have to go to Galileo Galilei before Leonardo
Da Vinci for working up a really robust 'dynamic' theory of how simple machines function.
A few other related discoveries to add to the mix:
- The Greek philosopher Archimedes first introduced the term 'Simple Machine.'
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| Archimedes |
- Archimedes understood there to be three simple machines: the lever, pulley, and screw.
- He discovered the 'mechanical advantage' of the lever, but his understanding was limited to the static balance of forces and did not include the trade off between force and distance moved.
- Galileo, however, was the first to understand that simple machines transformed energy rather than create it.
I was more familiar with Leonardo's extensions on these ideas, but also mistakenly thought him to be the author of these ideas. Seems like credit needs first to go to Galileo & Archimedes. Nice work, guys.
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