How does the mechanical advantage of an inclined plane change with its length and height?

The correct answer highlights the relationship between the length and height of an inclined plane and how it influences mechanical advantage. Mechanical advantage is defined as the ratio of the output force exerted by the machine to the input force applied to it. For an inclined plane, mechanical advantage can be calculated using the formula:

Mechanical Advantage (MA) = Length of the incline / Height of the incline.

When the length of the inclined plane increases while the height remains constant, the ratio of the length to height increases, which results in a higher mechanical advantage. This means the longer the incline (for a given height), the less force is required to lift an object compared to lifting it straight up vertically. Therefore, a longer inclined plane that has a lower height creates a situation that allows for a more gradual ascent or descent, leading to greater efficiency when moving loads.

This approach allows for easier movement of heavy objects over a long distance, making it possible to use less force over a longer path. The other potential answers do not accurately reflect how mechanical advantage is impacted by the dimensions of the inclined plane, as they either misrepresent the relationship or make misleading generalizations.