What simple machines are in scissors?

Scissors can be classified as both levers and wedges due to their shape and how they are assembled. The two simple machines being in one device, actually moves the scissors into the compound machine classification.

The first simple machine in scissors is the edge, which is the wedge part of the tool. The wedge is what holds the sharp edge and separates the material being cut. The lever, which is created by the second wedge and handles, creates the force that is needed by the tool to actually perform the cutting motion. The levers apply pressure to the object being cut and the wedge separates the target material.