2.2 and 2.4 Centre of Mass/Stability Flashcards
Where is the centre of mass in a suspended object?
In equilibrium, the centre of mass in a suspended object is directly beneath the point of suspension
Where is the centre of mass in symmetrical objects?
Where the lines of symmetry cross
What does the position of the centre of mass depend on?
The shape of the object, sometimes it lies outside the object
What is equilibrium (in physics)?
Equal forces acting on each side so no moments happen
What is the centre of mass of an object?
The point where it’s mass can be considered to be concentrated
Where does the line of action of an object act through?
The objects centre of mass
What happens if the line of action of the weight of an object lies outside the base on an object?
There will be a resultant moment and the object will topple over
Why does hanging heavy bags from the handle of a pushchair make it more likely to fall over?
The bags raise the centre of mass of the pushchair so it will not have to tilt as far for the line of action to be outside of the base
How can you increase the stability of an object?
- increase the width of the base
* lower the centre of mass
Why does a higher centre of mass mean it is less stable?
Because it doesn’t have as far to tilt for the line of action of its weight to be outside its base
Why does have a wider base mean an object is more stable?
There is more room for the object to tilt before the line of action of its weight is outside of the base
