What can be achieved through the use of a pulley system?

The use of a pulley system primarily achieves mechanical advantage. A pulley allows a user to lift heavy loads more easily by distributing the weight and reducing the amount of effort needed. This is accomplished by changing the direction of the force applied or by distributing the load across multiple ropes, which decreases the effective weight that needs to be lifted directly by the user. For example, when using multiple pulleys in a block and tackle system, the user can exert a smaller force to lift a heavier object, thus enhancing efficiency and reducing physical strain.

In contrast, increased friction would make lifting more difficult, shorter rope length does not contribute to load lifting but rather impacts the overall mechanics of the system, and greater difficulty in lifting loads contradicts the purpose of utilizing a pulley system. Overall, the correct choice highlights the essential benefit of employing pulleys in lifting operations.