What is the mechanical advantage formula for an inclined plane?

The mechanical advantage (MA) of an inclined plane is defined as the ratio of the length of the incline to the height of the incline. This ratio indicates how much the inclined plane reduces the effort required to lift an object compared to lifting it vertically.

When calculating the mechanical advantage, you are essentially comparing the distance over which you apply the effort (the length of the incline) to the height you actually lift the object (the vertical height). A longer incline means that you exert force over a greater distance, which reduces the force needed to lift the object straight up. Thus, the formula for mechanical advantage, Length of Incline / Height of Incline, demonstrates how advantageous using an inclined plane can be in terms of reducing the effort required for lifting objects.

The other options do not accurately depict the relationship for calculating the mechanical advantage in this context. For instance, using the height of the incline relative to its length would not provide a meaningful understanding of the force reduction achieved by using the incline, as it reverses the relationship between effort distance and height.