Pengungkit

Pengungkit, also known as a lever, is a simple machine consisting of a rigid bar that pivots around a fixed point called a fulcrum. Its primary purpose is to multiply the applied force, making it easier to move or lift heavy objects. The principle behind a pengungkit is the conservation of energy. By applying force at a greater distance from the fulcrum than the load, a smaller input force can overcome a larger output force. The distance from the fulcrum to the point where the force is applied is called the effort arm, and the distance from the fulcrum to the load is called the load arm.

Pengungkit are categorized into three classes based on the relative positions of the fulcrum, effort, and load. Class 1 pengungkit has the fulcrum located between the effort and the load. Examples include a seesaw or a crowbar. Class 2 pengungkit has the load located between the fulcrum and the effort. A wheelbarrow is a common example. Class 3 pengungkit has the effort located between the fulcrum and the load. Tweezers and fishing rods are typical illustrations of this class. The mechanical advantage of a pengungkit is the ratio of the load to the effort, or equivalently, the ratio of the effort arm to the load arm. This advantage allows for efficient manipulation of forces in various mechanical applications.