Yes, Mr. Grepper. Wedge is a simple machine which converts the force applied to the blunt end into perpendicular forces. Friction a little bit complicates the situation.
In some situations, e.g. when lifting a heavy body, we use long wedge with narrow angle. In this case the friction binds the wedge.
When splitting wood, we are not interested in stacking wedge and therefore we use a shorter wedge with a wider angle. We sacrifice some wedge mechanical advantage in favour of increased splitting efficiency.
In some situations, e.g. when lifting a heavy body, we use long wedge with narrow angle. In this case the friction binds the wedge.
When splitting wood, we are not interested in stacking wedge and therefore we use a shorter wedge with a wider angle. We sacrifice some wedge mechanical advantage in favour of increased splitting efficiency.