Question

An almond nut can be broken by applying a force of 2 kgf on the extreme end of the handle of a nutcracker which is 25 cm long. If the nut is placed at a distance of 5 cm from its hinge, calculate the maximum resistance offered by the nut.

Answer 1

Nutcracker is a lever of second order.

Given: Load arm (d) = 5 cm

∴ Effort arm (D) = 25 cm

Effort (E) = 2 kgf, Load (L) = ?

Now, Load × load arm = Effort × effort arm

Load × 5 cm = 2 kgf × 25 cm

\[ \therefore\ \text{Load} = \frac{2\ \mathrm{kgf} \times 25\ \mathrm{cm}}{5\ \mathrm{cm}} \]

= 10 kgf