International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Trainer Practice Exam

True or False: A second-class lever aids in doing work more easily.

1. True

2. False

3. Only in specific conditions

4. Depends on the load used

The correct answer is: True

A second-class lever indeed aids in doing work more easily. This type of lever has the load positioned between the fulcrum and the effort. It allows a smaller effort to be applied over a longer distance, resulting in a mechanical advantage. For instance, when lifting a heavy object using a wheelbarrow, the load sits in the middle, the wheel acts as the fulcrum, and the effort is applied at the handles. This arrangement enables a person to lift heavier loads with less effort compared to lifting them straight up without any assistance. As a result, second-class levers are highly efficient in increasing the output force, making tasks easier to perform. The other choices consider contexts that do not align with the inherent mechanical advantage provided by second-class levers. Thus, the statement is true as it captures the general principle of how second-class levers function in facilitating work.