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Leverage




Leverage is a factor by which Lever multiplies a Force - it is therefore related to Mechanical Advantage . The useful work done is the Energy applied, which is force times Distance . Therefore a small force applied over a long distance is the same amount of work as a large force applied over a small distance. The trick is converting the one into the other. The requisite mathematics was developed in the third century B.C. by Archimedes .

The simplest device for creating leverage is the Lever . A lever is a stick which rests on a Fulcrum near one end. When you push the long end of the stick down a long ways, the short end moves a small distance up with great force. With this device a man can easily lift several times his own weight.

Other common devices that achieve leverage include the Wrench , various Pulley arrangements, a Jack , and Hydraulic Brake s.

It can also refer, in an economic sense, to the use of Debt to acquire assets in a market economy.


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