Which part of a lever typically supports the effort applied?

The part of a lever that typically supports the effort applied is the fulcrum. The fulcrum is the point around which the lever rotates. When effort is applied on one side of the lever, it creates a force that acts about the fulcrum, enabling the lever to move and lift a load on the opposite side. The fulcrum is essential because it acts as the support structure that allows the lever to function effectively.

In the context of a lever, the load refers to the weight or resistance that needs to be moved, while the arm is the distance from the fulcrum to the point of application of effort or the load. The pivot serves a similar purpose as the fulcrum, but in the context of levers, the term "fulcrum" is more commonly used to denote the actual point of support. Thus, the correct identification of the fulcrum emphasizes its role in the mechanics of how levers operate, particularly in terms of enabling the application of effort to achieve mechanical advantage.