A lever is a simple machine used to make work easier. It consists of a rigid bar with a support that allows the bar to pivot. The point where the bar pivots is the fulcrum. There are three classes of levers: first, second, and third. In this experiment, you will examine first-class levers. Crowbars and scissors are examples of first-class levers. A lever can help you move an object by increasing the force you exert. Mechanical advantage (MA) is a value that tells the number of times a machine increases an applied force. You will use the force sensor built into a Sensor Cart to measure resistance force and effort force. You will then use this information to calculate the mechanical advantage of each lever.
Calculate actual mechanical advantage (AMA).
Calculate ideal mechanical advantage (IMA).
Calculate percent difference.
Make conclusions about levers.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment features the following Vernier sensors and equipment.