A lever is a simple machine designed to use the turning effect of a force.

The force applied to a lever is called the effort.

The force produced by a lever is called the load.

If a lever produces a larger load force than the effort force, it is a force multiplier.

Levers

Science

Gravitational force and weight

Stretching springs

Hooke's law

Stretching rubber

The force of a floor

Turning forces

Floating, mass and shape

Pressure

Pressure at different depths and heights

In the Particle explanations of density and pressure unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to learn how the arrangement and movement of particles in solids, liquids and gases explain density, pressure, floating and convection.

In the Forces unit, pupils learnt how to accurately describe and explain the actions of forces in a range of situations.

This unit explores forces, deformation, Hooke’s Law, moments, and work done. It covers pressure in liquids, atmospheric pressure, upthrust, and equilibrium, as well as simple machines and force-extension relationships, highlighting how forces affect motion, friction, and object deformation.

Hidden forces

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

a simple machine designed to use the turning effect of a force

the point along a lever at which it rotates

a type of lever that has a larger load force than effort force

Match the key words with the explanations.

at the point where the wheel touches the floor

Where is the pivot on this wheelbarrow containing soil?

A smaller force is needed to close the door pushing at A instead of B.

A smaller force is needed to close the door pushing at B instead of A.

The same size force is needed to close the door pushing at A and at B.

The door is most easily closed by pushing very close to the hinges.

The figure shows an open door. Which statement is correct?

What term is used for a lever that produces a larger load force than the effort force applied?

The effort force is applied a large distance away from the pivot.

The effort force is applied close to the pivot.

The load force is produced close to the pivot.

The load force is produced a large distance from the the pivot.

The figure shows a winch used to pull on a rope. The winch is operated by pulling the handle around the pivot in the middle.
Which feature make this lever a force multiplier?

increasing the distance from the effort force to the pivot

decreasing the distance from the effort force to the pivot

increasing the distance from the load force to the pivot

decreasing the distance from the load force to the pivot

How can the load force produced by a crowbar be increased?

The point at which a lever rotates called the {{}}.

the effort force will be further from the pivot

the effort force will be closer from the pivot

Why is it easier to steer a bicycle with **wide** handlebars, like those shown, than one with narrower handlebars?

A lever that produces a larger load force than the effort force is called a force {{}}.

The grip holds the bolt tightly so it does not slip.

The effort force is further from the pivot than the load force.

The effort force is closer to the pivot than the load force.

The handle makes the spanner easy to grip so a large force is produced.

Why does a spanner acts as a force multiplier?

The screwdriver is acting as a force multiplier.

The load force is very close to the pivot.

The effort force is very close to the pivot.

The effort and load forces must be equal and opposite.

A screwdriver is being used to open a tin of paint. Which statements are correct?

Starter Quiz