There are three classes of levers, identified as first class, second class, and third class. Each class works differently and is used to do different jobs. The difference between the classes is where the fulcrum and applied force are in relation to the load. Here is a brief summary of each class:
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First Class Lever: The fulcrum is in between the applied force and the load. The movement of the load is in the opposite direction of the movement of the effort. Examples of first class levers include seesaws, crowbars, and scissors.
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Second Class Lever: The load is in between the fulcrum and the applied force. The movement of the load is in the same direction as the movement of the effort. Examples of second class levers include wheelbarrows, nutcrackers, and bottle openers.
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Third Class Lever: The effort is in between the fulcrum and the load. Both the effort and load are in the same direction. Examples of third class levers include tweezers, fishing rods, and hotdog tongs.
