Final answer:
When applying force to the handle of a positioning lever, it is important to consider the position of the force relative to the pivot point. There are three possible ways to apply the force: perpendicularly to the lever arm, parallel to the lever arm far from the pivot point, or parallel to the lever arm close to the pivot point.
Step-by-step explanation:
When applying force to the handle of a positioning lever, it is important to consider the position of the force relative to the pivot point. There are three possible ways to apply the force:
- Perpendicular to the lever arm: The force should be applied perpendicularly to the lever arm as far as possible from the pivot point. This maximizes the torque and allows for greater leverage.
- Parallel to the lever arm, far from the pivot point: The force should be applied parallel to the lever arm as far as possible from the pivot point. This also maximizes the torque and leverage.
- Parallel to the lever arm, close to the pivot point: The force should be applied parallel to the lever arm as close as possible to the pivot point. This reduces the torque and leverage.