How is mechanical advantage calculated in a pulley system?

In a pulley system, mechanical advantage is calculated by dividing the load force by the effort force. This measurement reflects how much easier a task is due to the use of the pulley. The load force represents the weight of the object being lifted, while the effort force is the amount of force applied to lift that object.

When using pulleys, the mechanical advantage indicates how much the force exerted can be reduced, making it easier to lift heavy loads. A higher mechanical advantage means less effort is needed to move the load, which is the main benefit of using a pulley system. This principle is fundamental in mechanical systems and helps in understanding how machines can amplify force.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately represent the calculation of mechanical advantage in a pulley system. They might refer to related concepts such as work or various applications of force, but they are not the correct way to determine the mechanical advantage specific to pulleys.