Types of Simple Machines

Flashcards about Simple Machines

First Class Lever

A lever where the fulcrum is located between the effort and the load. It changes the direction of the force and can increase speed or force depending on the position of the fulcrum. Examples include seesaws, scissors, crowbars, and pliers.

Fulcrum

The point around which a lever pivots.

Effort

The force applied to a lever.

Load

The object being moved or lifted by a lever.

Second Class Lever

A lever where the load is located between the fulcrum and the effort. It increases force, allowing a heavier load to be moved with less force but a greater distance. Examples include wheelbarrows, nutcrackers, bottle openers, and doors (hinged).

Third Class Lever

A lever where the effort is located between the fulcrum and the load. It increases the speed and distance of the load but requires more effort force. Examples include tweezers, fishing rods, brooms, and the human arm (elbow as fulcrum).