Answer: A screw is a simple machine made up of an inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder. It is used to hold objects together or lift materials by converting rotational motion into linear motion. Screws make work easier by increasing force. Two examples of screw are car jacks, used to lift vehicles for repairs, and jar lids, used to seal containers tightly.
Complete Answer:
A screw is a simple machine that consists of an inclined plane wrapped around a central cylinder or shaft. This inclined plane forms a spiral called a thread, which helps the screw convert rotational motion into linear motion. When you turn a screw, the threads grip the material and pull the screw in or push it out, depending on the direction of rotation. This mechanism allows screws to hold things together tightly or lift heavy objects with less effort.
Screws are widely used in our daily lives and in various machines and tools. They help increase mechanical advantage, meaning they allow a small input force to create a larger output force. For example, when you twist a jar lid, you’re using the screw’s threads to create a tight seal. Similarly, when a car jack is turned, the screw inside it lifts the vehicle by converting your turning motion into lifting force.
There are many types of screws, including wood screws, machine screws, and bolts, each designed for specific tasks. The pitch (distance between threads) and the shape of the thread can vary depending on the application.

Learn answer to what is a screw? give two examples with some other common examples of screws used in everyday life and machines:
- Bottle caps (like on plastic water bottles) – The threads on the cap and bottle help seal the container tightly.
- Bulbs (like light bulbs) – The base of many bulbs has a screw thread that fits into a socket securely.
- Corkscrews – Used to remove corks from wine bottles by twisting into the cork and pulling it out.
- Vices – A tool used to hold objects firmly; it uses a screw to tighten the grip.
- Micrometer screw gauge – A precise measuring tool that uses a fine screw to measure small lengths accurately.
Common Physics Doubts:
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