Which term refers to the end of a ladder placed on the ground?

The term that refers to the end of a ladder placed on the ground is known as the "butt." In ladder terminology, the butt is specifically the portion of the ladder that rests on the surface when the ladder is positioned for use. This is a crucial aspect of ladder safety and functionality, as the butt needs to provide a stable base to prevent the ladder from slipping or tipping while in use.

Understanding this concept is important for firefighters as it enhances safety during operations. The butt must be positioned properly on a solid surface to ensure the ladder's stability. Other terms like "rung," "spur," and "plate" refer to different parts or features of a ladder. The rung refers to the individual steps on the ladder that firefighters climb, while a spur can refer to an attachment that helps stabilize the ladder, and a plate typically refers to the base or foot of a ladder but is not specifically the part that rests on the ground like the butt does.