What simple machine combines two levers in scissors?

Scissors are a practical example of a simple machine that utilizes the principle of levers. Each blade of the scissors acts as a lever, allowing for the application of force to cut materials. The pivot point, or fulcrum, is located where the two blades connect, enabling the user to apply force at the handles which translates into a cutting motion at the points where the blades sharpened edges meet.

This design effectively amplifies the input force exerted by the user, demonstrating the mechanical advantage provided by levers. The combined action of the two levers working around the fulcrum allows circular motion and better control, making scissors an effective cutting tool. This characteristic is what distinguishes scissors as a compound lever system, further emphasizing their function as levers rather than as wedges, inclined planes, or screws.