SIMPLE MACHINES

a device that increases or changes the direction of a force

Levers

Levers are probably the most common simple machine.

The fulcrum is the point in which a lever rests (pivots);

The load is what you are trying to move;

Effort is the force you apply.

First Class Levers

The fulcrum is between the effort and the load.

Second Class Levers

The load is between the effort and the fulcrum.

Third Class Levers

The effort is between the fulcrum and the load.

Leavers and Loads

A lever might be able to...

decrease the effort required to move a load;

change the direction that a load moves;

increase the distance that load moves;

Increase the speed with which a load moves.

​Phet - Balancing Act

​Demo Levers