In a second class lever, where is the fulcrum located?

In a second-class lever, the fulcrum is located at one end of the lever. This configuration allows for the load to be positioned between the fulcrum and the effort applied. The purpose of a second-class lever is to make lifting heavy loads easier, as the force applied (effort) is amplified by the distance between the load and the fulcrum.

This specific design means that when force is applied at one end, the lever pivots on the fulcrum, effectively increasing the distance and leverage applied on the load. Classic examples of second-class levers include wheelbarrows and nutcrackers, where the effort is exerted on one end while the load is positioned close to the fulcrum. In this way, the mechanical advantage facilitated by the lever allows a smaller force to lift a heavier load compared to the effort applied.