What is the term for the point where a lever is supported and pivots?

The term that refers to the point where a lever is supported and pivots is "fulcrum." The fulcrum is a crucial concept in physics and mechanics because it acts as the focal point around which the lever operates. When a force is applied on one end of the lever, the lever rotates around the fulcrum, enabling the user to lift or move objects on the other side.

This concept is central to understanding mechanics, particularly in contexts related to leverage, as the position of the fulcrum affects how much force is required to lift an object. The farther away the fulcrum is from the load, the less force is needed to lift that load, illustrating how levers can be used to make work easier.

Recognizing the role of the fulcrum is also essential in various applications, such as in engineering, physics, and even everyday tools like seesaws and crowbars, where leverage principles are utilized.