Centre of Mass

Question 1

Centre of mass definition

Answer 1

The point where an object’s entire mass can be considered to act

Question 2

To balance, the centre of mass must be…

Answer 2

…above or below a base or pivot

Question 3

Objects are more stable if the centre of mass is ____ or the base is ____

Answer 3

Lower, bigger

Question 4

For an object to topple the centre of mass must __________ or an _________ moment is created so the object _________

Answer 4

No longer be above a base/pivot, unbalanced, rotates and falls over

Question 5

List the steps to find the centre of mass of an object

Answer 5

1. Hang an object (freely) from a clamp and stand
2. Use a plumb line to help draw a line vertically down from the pivot
3. Repeat from a different point/hole
4. Centre of mass is where the 2 lines cross