What is the mechanical advantage of a wedge primarily due to?

The mechanical advantage of a wedge is primarily due to the angle of its inclined planes. This angle affects how effectively the wedge can convert the applied force into a useful output force, allowing it to split or lift objects with less effort. When the angle is smaller, the wedge can more easily push through materials, utilizing the force applied over a longer distance, which translates to a greater advantage.

The sharpness of its edge does help in reducing the effort needed to penetrate the material, but it is not the primary source of mechanical advantage. The material the wedge is made of can influence its durability and how well it performs, yet it does not inherently change the mechanical principles at play. The length of the wedge can affect how much distance is covered when force is applied but again is not the main factor determining the mechanical advantage — that factor lies in the angle of the inclined planes.