What is characteristic of a first-class lever?

A first-class lever is defined by the arrangement of its components: the load, effort, and fulcrum. In this type of lever, the fulcrum is positioned between the load and the effort. This configuration allows for a mechanical advantage, as the effort applied on one side can lift a load on the other side, depending on the distance from the fulcrum.

When the fulcrum is in the middle, it facilitates a balance point around which the lever arm can pivot. This allows for effective movement and the ability to lift heavier objects with less effort, making first-class levers useful in various physical activities and tasks.

Understanding this arrangement is essential, as it differentiates first-class levers from second and third-class levers, where the load or effort is placed differently in relation to the fulcrum.