When the Fulcrum is Located Between the Load and the Force

Question

When the fulcrum is located between the load and the force, it is called a ________ lever.
A) first-class
B) second-class
C) third-class
D) fourth-class
E) compound

Accepted Answer

In a first-class lever, the fulcrum is located between the load and the force. This type of lever is used to change the direction of force or to increase force, but it does not increase the speed or distance of the load. Examples include a see-saw, pliers, and scissors. Second-class levers have the load located between the fulcrum and the force, while third-class levers have the force located between the fulcrum and the load. Fourth-class levers, also known as "resistance arms," have the force located even farther away from the fulcrum, which allows for greater speed and distance of movement, but less force. Compound levers are simply multiple levers combined into one system.