Do fixed pulleys add mechanical advantage?

A fixed pulley does not provide mechanical advantage because it simply changes the direction of the force applied. When using a fixed pulley, the effort you apply upward is equal to the load you are lifting downward. This means that while the pulley can make it easier to lift the load by allowing you to pull down rather than lifting the load directly, it does not reduce the amount of force needed; the input force equals the output force.

The concept of mechanical advantage comes from systems that involve movable pulleys or combinations of pulleys that allow you to lift heavier loads with less effort. In those systems, the number of ropes supporting the load helps to reduce the effective weight that needs to be lifted, creating an easier lifting process.

In contrast, scenarios that suggest fixed pulleys could provide mechanical advantage would imply specific configurations or setups that alter their fundamental function. However, these scenarios typically involve moving pulleys rather than fixed ones. Therefore, the straightforward operation of a fixed pulley confirms that it does not contribute to mechanical advantage.