ASVAB · Simple Machines (Levers, Pulleys, Gears)

In a first-class lever (like a seesaw), where is the fulcrum located?

Correct answer

Between the effort (force) and the load

  1. A Between the effort (force) and the load
  2. B At the load
  3. C There is no fulcrum
  4. D At one end

Why this is the answer

In a FIRST-CLASS LEVER, the FULCRUM is located BETWEEN the effort (applied force) and the load — like a seesaw or a pair of scissors. ASVAB Mechanical Comprehension tests the three classes of levers:

First-class: fulcrum in the middle (seesaw, crowbar, scissors).

Second-class: load in the middle (wheelbarrow, nutcracker).

Third-class: effort in the middle (tweezers, human forearm). Levers provide mechanical advantage. Knowing the arrangement (what's in the middle) for each lever class is commonly tested.

Source: ASVAB Mechanical Comprehension — Levers

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About this topic: Simple Machines (Levers, Pulleys, Gears)

Simple machines — levers, pulleys, gears, inclined planes, wheel-and-axle, screws — are the heart of Mechanical Comprehension. Each question comes down to mechanical advantage: how much the machine multiplies force, and the trade-off in distance. This is one of 23 Mechanical Comprehension questions on simple machines (levers, pulleys, gears), each with a full explanation on a single study page.

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