Lever
A lever is a simple machine. It is something that can be used in a lot of ways. One way is by measuring things, or by seeing which weighs more. A lever is supported by a fulcrum which it uses to lifts weights. It is one of six simple machines. There are three types of levers: first-class, second-class and third-class.
Early
[change | change source]The earliest remaining writings about levers are from the 3rd century BC. They were written by Archimedes. "Give me a place to stand, and I shall move the earth." is a famous quote from Archimedes who stated the correct mathematical principle of levers (quoted by Pappus of Alexandria).[1]
Types of levers
[change | change source]There are three kinds of levers. The difference between them is where the fulcrum is and where the forces are acting.
First class
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A first-class lever is a lever where the fulcrum is in between the effort and resistance (the load). Seesaws and crowbars are examples of first class levers.
Second class
[change | change source]A second-class lever is where the resistance is between the effort and the fulcrum. Wheel barrows and wrenches are examples of second class levers.
Third class
[change | change source]A third class lever is where the effort is between the resistance and the fulcrum. Staplers and your forearm are examples of third class levers.
References
[change | change source]- ↑ Mackay, Alan Lindsay (1991). "Archimedes ca 287–212 BC". A Dictionary of scientific quotations. London: Taylor and Francis. p. 11. ISBN 9780750301060.
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