The Lever is a simple machine machine used to move something by force easier. There are other definitions needed to know to understand how to use levers.
Load: The load is the object needed to be lifted while using a lever. The load is usually causing a downward force.
Effort: Effort is the force needed to lift the load whether it is your hand or a different object to counteract the loads force.
Fulcrum: The fulcrum is the point on which a lever rests or is supported by. The fulcrum barely causes any friction against the arm of the lever.
Lets take a look and explore the different classes of levers.
(Figure 1)
The image on the left is a diagram of what a Class 1 lever looks like. Class 1 levers are classified by having the load and effort force positioned on opposite sides of the fulcrum. Examples of this class 1 lever would be a teeter totter, some weigh scales, scissors, and a wrench.
The image on the left is a diagram of what a Class 2 lever looks like. Class 2 levers are more commonly used to lift the load upward. As you can see the load is positioned in the middle of the fulcrum and effort force. Examples: Wheel barrow and nut cracker.
The image on the left is a diagram of what a Class 3 lever looks like. Class 3 levers exist when you are applying effort upward in the center of the arm and the load and fulcrum are on either side of the effort. Examples of this class of lever would be barbecue tongs, tweezers, loaded fishing rode, and a human arm.
- Load: The load is the object needed to be lifted while using a lever. The load is usually causing a downward force.
- Effort: Effort is the force needed to lift the load whether it is your hand or a different object to counteract the loads force.
- Fulcrum: The fulcrum is the point on which a lever rests or is supported by. The fulcrum barely causes any friction against the arm of the lever.
Lets take a look and explore the different classes of levers.