A fixed pulley is a simple machine that consists of a wheel with a groove around its edge, through which a rope or cable passes. It is mounted in a fixed position, meaning it does not move when the load is lifted. The primary function of a fixed pulley is to change the direction of the force applied, allowing a person to pull down on the rope to lift a load upward. In practical applications, fixed pulleys are often used in systems like flagpoles or cranes. They help reduce the effort needed to lift heavy objects by allowing users to apply force in a more convenient direction. However, fixed pulleys do not reduce the amount of force required to lift the load; they simply make the lifting process easier.