How should the 500-pound weight be shifted to balance the plank on the fulcrum?

To determine how to shift the 500-pound weight to balance the plank on the fulcrum, it's important to consider the principles of torque and leverage. Torque is calculated by multiplying the weight by the distance from the fulcrum. In this scenario, for the plank to be balanced, the torque produced by the weight on one side of the fulcrum must equal the torque produced by the weight on the other side.

Shifting the weight 1 inch to the left suggests that the torque generated by the weight on the left side will increase, allowing it to counterbalance whatever force (or weight) is acting on the opposite side of the fulcrum.

This option is correct if, by moving the weight just 1 inch to the left, it achieves a more balanced state, negating any imbalance caused by the other weight or distribution of mass along the plank. The key here is finding the precise movement needed to create equilibrium, which can often require only a small adjustment, particularly when dealing with a weight as substantial as 500 pounds.

The other options may imply larger shifts that could either overcorrect for an imbalance or misplace the weight, leading to further imbalance rather than achieving the desired equilibrium. Thus, shifting the weight 1