What is the ideal mechanical advantage (IMA) of a lever?

The ideal mechanical advantage (IMA) of a lever is calculated using the ratio of the lengths of the effort arm to the load arm. This relationship describes how much a lever amplifies the input force (effort) compared to the output force (load). Specifically, the effort arm is the distance from the fulcrum to where the effort is applied, while the load arm is the distance from the fulcrum to the load being lifted.

In simpler terms, the greater the length of the effort arm relative to the load arm, the more the lever can multiply the input force. This concept is crucial in understanding how levers are used in various applications to make lifting or moving objects easier. If the IMA is greater than 1, the lever reduces the amount of effort needed to lift a load, which is essential for accomplishing work efficiently in mechanical systems.