Which countries/empires were part of the Central Powers during the First World War?

Okay, let's break down the Central Powers in World War I. To understand this, think about the alliances that formed in the early 20th century. Europe was a powder keg, with rising tensions and competing empires. The Central Powers were primarily Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottoman Empire (modern-day Turkey), and Bulgaria. Now, why is Bulgaria and the Austro-Hungarian Empire the right answer? Well, Austria-Hungary was a major player in Central Europe, and its declaration of war on Serbia after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand is what really kicked off the war in 1914. Bulgaria joined later, in 1915, hoping to gain territory in the Balkans. Belgium was neutral at the start of the war and was invaded by Germany, so they were definitely not a Central Power. Italy actually started as part of the Triple Alliance with Germany and Austria-Hungary, but they later switched sides and joined the Allies in 1915, enticed by promises of territory. So, remembering Austria-Hungary's role in starting the war and Bulgaria's later entry helps you pinpoint the correct answer.