Which statements are true?

A.
All simple machines are basically the same kind of machine.

B.
Pulleys are simple machines.

C.
One of the simple machines on a bicycle is a wheel & axle.

D.
Pulleys can change the direction of force.

E.
First-class levers are the best kind of levers.

B.

Pulleys are simple machines.

C.
One of the simple machines on a bicycle is a wheel & axle.

D.
Pulleys can change the direction of force.

The statements that are true are:

B. Pulleys are simple machines.

C. One of the simple machines on a bicycle is a wheel & axle.

D. Pulleys can change the direction of force.

To determine which statements are true, let's analyze each statement one by one:

A. "All simple machines are basically the same kind of machine."
To assess the validity of this statement, we need to understand what a simple machine is. A simple machine is a mechanical device that helps in performing work by changing the magnitude or direction of a force. Examples of simple machines include levers, pulleys, wheels & axles, inclined planes, wedges, and screws.

However, different simple machines have different mechanisms and functions. Therefore, statement A is false because not all simple machines are the same kind of machine.

B. "Pulleys are simple machines."
This statement is true. A pulley is indeed considered a simple machine as it helps in lifting or moving objects by changing the direction of the force applied.

C. "One of the simple machines on a bicycle is a wheel & axle."
This statement is also true. A wheel and axle is a common simple machine found in bicycles. The wheel allows for efficient movement, and the axle serves as the central support around which the wheel rotates.

D. "Pulleys can change the direction of force."
This statement is true. Pulleys are specifically designed to redirect the force applied to them, allowing for changes in the direction of the force.

E. "First-class levers are the best kind of levers."
This statement is subjective and depends on the specific application. First-class levers have the fulcrum placed between the input force and output force. They have various uses and advantages. However, whether they are the best kind of levers depends on the specific requirements and context of the situation. Therefore, this statement is not necessarily true or false.

In summary, the true statements are B, C, and D.