Levers

1. Levers Simple Machines

2. Levers are one of the basic tools that were probably used in prehistoric times. Levers were first described about 260 BC by the ancient Greek mathematician Archimedes (287-212 BC).

3. A lever is a simple machine that makes work easier for use; it involves moving a load around a pivot using a force. • Many of our basic tools use levers, including scissors (2 class 1 levers), pliers (2 class 1 levers), hammer claws (a single class 2 lever), nut crackers (2 class 2 levers), and tongs (2 class 3 levers).

4. A Type 1 Lever. A Type 2 Lever. A Type 3 Lever.

5. Examples of common tools (and other items) that use a type 1 lever include: A Type 1 Lever. In a Type 1 Lever, the pivot (fulcrum) is between the effort and the load. In an off-center type one lever (like a pliers), the load is larger than the effort, but is moved through a smaller distance. Examples of common tools (and other items) that use a type 1 lever include:

6. Examples of common tools that use a type 2 lever include: A Type 2 Lever. In a Type 2 Lever, the load is between the pivot (fulcrum) and the effort. • Examples of common tools that use a type 2 lever include:

7. Examples of common tools that use a type 3 lever include: In a Type 3 Lever, the effort is between the pivot (fulcrum) and the load.