What is the ideal mechanical advantage of a compound pulley with 4 strands?

The ideal mechanical advantage (IMA) of a compound pulley system is determined by the number of strands or ropes that support the load being lifted. Each strand of rope effectively divides the weight of the load among them, allowing for a mechanical advantage that corresponds directly to the number of strands in the system.

In the case of a compound pulley with 4 strands, each strand supports an equal portion of the load, meaning that the IMA is equal to the number of strands. Therefore, if there are 4 strands, the ideal mechanical advantage is simply 4. This means that for every unit of effort applied to the pulley system, the load is effectively raised by a factor of 4, making it easier to lift heavier weights.

This understanding highlights the principle that the more strands are present in a pulley system, the greater the mechanical advantage and the easier it becomes to lift a load.