Crowbar facts for kids

A crowbar is a strong metal tool. People use it mainly to pry things open. It often has a hook shape at one end. This curved end helps you get more power, like a lever. Some crowbars also have a special notch. This notch is great for pulling out nails.

Most crowbars are made from carbon steel. You can also find some made from titanium. Titanium crowbars are lighter and are not magnetic. The word "crowbar" first appeared around the 1400s. Back then, people just called them "crows" or "iron crows."

What is a Crowbar Used For?

Crowbars are very useful tools. They act like a lever to help you move or separate objects. You can use them to force two things apart. They are also good for removing nails. For example, crowbars are often used to open wooden crates that are nailed shut.

Bigger crowbars can help with many tasks. These include pulling out tough nails. They are also great for prying apart wooden boards. Generally, they are handy for breaking things apart safely.

How a Crowbar Works as a Lever

A crowbar can work in different ways, like different types of levers.

• When you use the curved end, it usually acts as a first-class lever. This means the part that helps you push (the fulcrum) is between your hand and the object you are moving.
• When you use the flat end, it often acts as a second-class lever. Here, the object you are moving is between your hand and the fulcrum.

In the past, crowbars were used in mining. Miners used them to break up rocks after blasting. They also helped remove loose rocks from cave roofs. However, they are not used as much in modern mining today.

Images for kids

• 

  A person using a long crowbar to remove a board.

• 

  A crowbar with a curved end for leverage and a swan neck for pulling nails.

See also

In Spanish: Pie de cabra para niños