SIMPLE MACHINES

LEVERS

A lever is a simple machine that uses a bar and a fixed point to help move a load. It has 3 parts: LOAD — What you want to move. FORCE — The push or pull you use. FULCRUM — The point where the bar is attached and can rotate around.

HOW LEVERS WORK

When you push or pull on one end of a lever, the lever pivots around the fulcrum and moves the load. Where the fulcrum is placed changes how the lever works. Moving the fulcrum closer to the load can make the load easier to move, while moving it farther away can make the load move a greater distance.

WHAT CAN LEVERS DO

Three practical ways this concept changes movement, force or direction.

A.

Move More with Less Effort

Levers Cap 1 mechanism illustration

A lever can help you lift or move something using less effort.

B.

Change Direction

Levers Cap 2 mechanism illustration

A lever can change the direction of a push or pull.

C.

Multiply Force 1

LEVERS capability C image 1LEVERS capability C image 2

A lever can increase the force you apply, helping you move a heavier load.

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