Definition: A turning or sliding piece which imparts motion to a rod, lever or block brought into sliding or rolling contact with it.
Alright class, settle down and let’s take a look! You’ve come across a tricky word today, “cam,” and the dictionary gives us a pretty detailed definition. Let's break it down piece by piece, in a way that makes sense, you see. Think of it like this: "Cam" stands for a moving part , quite clever! It’s not just sitting still, no sir or madam, you know. The dictionary says it “imparts motion to a rod, lever, or block.” That means it gives movement to something else. How does it do that? Well, imagine a wheel – a rotating friend . As this wheel turns, it pushes against another part - like a rod or a lever. This push is what makes things move! That’s the “sliding or rolling contact” part. Here's a rhyme to help you remember: "A cam is a mover, a turning decree, Giving motion for all to see!" Think of it like this: a camshaft in an engine – it controls the pistons with its rotating face! Or a simple doorstop that pushes against the door when it tilts. Does that make sense? Do you have any questions about what a "cam" is and how it works? Don’t be shy, let's discuss!