Final answer:
A heavier person sits closer to the fulcrum on a seesaw than a lighter person in order to balance the seesaw.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a seesaw, the heavier person sits closer to the fulcrum than the lighter person in order to balance the seesaw. This is because the position of a person on a seesaw affects the torques, or turning forces, acting on the seesaw. The torque produced by a person sitting on a seesaw is proportional to their weight and the distance they are from the fulcrum.
When a heavier person sits closer to the fulcrum, their weight creates a larger torque that is balanced by the smaller torque created by the lighter person sitting farther from the fulcrum. This allows the seesaw to remain level and both individuals to be in balance.
For example, imagine a seesaw with a heavier person on one end and a lighter person on the other end. If the heavier person sat farther from the fulcrum, their weight would create a larger torque that the lighter person couldn't balance. The seesaw would tilt towards the heavier person and they would be off balance.