Beginning Algebra With Applications, Chapter 3, 3.2, Section 3.2, Problem 200

A screwdriver 9 in. long is used as a lever to open a can of paint. The tip of the screwdriver is placed under the lip of the lid with the fulcrum 0.15 in. from the lip. A force of 30 lb is applied to the other end of the screwdriver. Find the force on the lip of the lid.

"Please refer to the figure in the book"

Using the Lever System Equation

$F_1 x = F_2 (d-x)$

Solving for $F_1$,


$
\begin{equation}
\begin{aligned}

F_1 =& \frac{F_2 (d-x)}{x}
&& \text{Divide by } x
\\
\\
F_1 =& \frac{30(9-8.85)}{8.85}
&& \text{Substitute } F_2 = 30, d = 9, x = 8.85
\\
\\
F_1 =& \frac{30(0.15)}{8.85}
&& \text{Simplify}
\\
\\
F_1 =& \frac{30}{59} \approx 0.51 \text{ lb}


\end{aligned}
\end{equation}
$


The force on the lip is 0.51 lb.