What is a common example of a third class lever?

A fishing rod is a classic example of a third-class lever, showcasing the distinctive characteristics of this kind of lever system. In a third-class lever, the effort is applied between the fulcrum and the load. When using a fishing rod, the fulcrum is located at the handle where the rod pivots, while the load is at the end of the line where the fish is hooked. The angler applies force through the rod, which acts in the middle. This setup allows for a greater range of motion and quick action, facilitating the ability to reel in a fish more efficiently.

The other options illustrate different lever types. A seesaw exemplifies a first-class lever with effort and load on either side of the fulcrum, and a wheelbarrow represents a second-class lever where the load is in between the effort and the fulcrum. A shovel, meanwhile, primarily functions as a second-class lever when lifting dirt, where the load is in the center, and the effort is applied at the handle. Thus, the characteristics of each lever class significantly distinguish their functionality and application in these examples.