LeversBret Chalpin,

McCoy Smith, and Elaina Donlon

LeversLevers are one of the basic tools that were

probably used in prehistoric times. Levers were first described about 260 BC by the ancient Greek mathematician Archimedes (287-212 BC).

Types of LeversThere are three main types of levers.Type 1 leversType 2 leversType 3 levers

Type 1 LeversIn a Type 1 Lever, the pivot (fulcrum) is between the

effort and the load. In an off-center type one lever (like a pliers), the load is larger than the effort, but is moved through a smaller distance.

Some examples are seesaws, scissors, and pliers.

Type 2 LeversIn a Type 2 Lever, the load is between the

pivot (fulcrum) and the effort.Some examples are staplers, bottle openers,

and nail clippers

Type 3 LeversIn a Type 3 Lever, the effort is between the

pivot (fulcrum) and the load.Some examples are fishing rods, tweezers,

and tongs.

Questions

1. What scientist first described levers?

2. What type of lever has the load between the fulcrum and the effort?

3. What type of a lever are scissors?

Answers1. Archimedes first introduced the lever.

2. Type 2 levers have the load between the fulcrum and the effort.

3. Scissors are a type 1 lever.