In using a long steel rod as a lever to move a large rock, where should the fulcrum be placed for a person to use the least amount of force to move the rock?
A) Close to the person.
B) Exactly halfway between the person and the rock.
C) Anywhere in between; it makes no difference.
D) Close to the rock.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fulcrum should be placed close to the rock to reduce the amount of force needed to move it. This is because placing the fulcrum closer to the load (rock) results in a greater mechanical advantage, requiring less force to be applied to the opposite end of the lever (rod) to produce the same amount of torque.

In Using a Long Steel Rod as a Lever to Move