What is the function of a pulley in engineering?

The function of a pulley in engineering is to help lift loads with less effort. Pulleys are simple machines that consist of a wheel with a groove around its edge, through which a rope or cable runs. When a load is attached to one end of the rope and the other end is pulled down, the pulley changes the direction of the force applied. This not only makes it easier to lift heavy objects but can also reduce the amount of force needed to raise the load, especially when used in systems with multiple pulleys—commonly referred to as a block and tackle system.

Utilizing a pulley system effectively distributes weight and minimizes the stress on the person or machine doing the lifting, allowing for safer and more efficient handling of heavy loads. This fundamental principle is widely applied in various engineering fields, such as construction, manufacturing, and material handling. The other options provided do not describe the role of a pulley, as they pertain to different functionalities that are unrelated to load lifting and movement.