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ASVAB · Simple Machines (Levers, Pulleys, Gears)

To lift a heavy load with a lever using the least effort, where should you apply the force, and where should the fulcrum be?

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Correct answer

Apply force far from the fulcrum, with the fulcrum close to the load

  1. A The positions don't matter
  2. B Apply force close to the fulcrum
  3. C Apply force far from the fulcrum, with the fulcrum close to the load
  4. D Apply force at the fulcrum

Why this is the answer

To minimize effort with a lever: apply the force FAR from the fulcrum (long effort arm) and place the fulcrum CLOSE to the load (short load arm). ASVAB Mechanical Comprehension tests lever mechanical advantage. MECHANICAL ADVANTAGE = effort arm length ÷ load arm length. A longer effort arm and shorter load arm give greater mechanical advantage (less force needed), but the effort must move a greater distance. This is why a long crowbar with the fulcrum near the load lifts heavy objects easily. The effort-arm/load-arm relationship is commonly tested.
Source: ASVAB Mechanical Comprehension — Lever Mechanical Advantage

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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.

New to this exam? Our ASVAB exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

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