Levers

A lever is a rigid body, which when used turns about a fixed point called a fulcrum or pivot. It is used to shift heavy loads.

Classes of levers

There are three classes of levers:

1.       First class lever

2.       Second class lever

3.       Third class lever

First class - Is the class lever whereby the pivot is between load and effort. Examples of first class levers are: see-saw, crowbar, pair of scissors and claw hammer

Second class lever - is the class lever where by load is between pivot and load. eg, wheel barrow, tongs, nutcracker, bottle opener.

Third class lever - Is the class lever whereby Effort is between load and pivot. Eg, fishing load.

Mechanical advantage of lever