World of Motion Project
Step 6: Bicycle Gears and More


In order to create a toy that moves under its own power, we need to understand several different principles and concepts. This step will introduce you to gears, gearing, gear ratios, work, power, force, efficiency, friction, linear motion, rotary motion, horsepower, torque, and wattage.

Part 1 - Exploring Bicycle Gears (Bicycle Gears Analysis Sheet)

Part 2 - Some Physics Terms

When your team is not working with Mark on Part 1 - Exploring Bicycle Gears, your team will be working to understand the terms below.

Specifically, working as a team, define and explain, in your own words, the terms below. You must also include sketches that help to more fully explain each term. You may find some of these terms difficult to understand, but I expect you to do your best.

  • Work (as defined by work = force x distance)
  • Power (as defined by power = work/time
  • Gear
  • Driven Gear
  • Drive Gear
  • Gear Ratio
  • Efficiency
  • Friction
  • Linear Motion
  • Rotary Motion
  • Work
  • Horsepower
  • Watt
  • Torque

Useful Links