In the concept of torque, the

location of a force is important.

How can the gravitational force
acting on an object be located?
Consider the metallic box below which is
composed of smaller mass particles.
Where can the gravitational force acting on the
box be located?
Center of Gravity
& Stability
pp 113-114
Center of Gravity
A point of an object where its entire weight
is assumed concentrated.
Center of Mass
A point of an object where its entire mass is
assumed concentrated
Center of Gravity
For regularly shaped objects, the CG is its
geometric center.
CG
CG
Center of Gravity
For irregularly shaped objects, the CG can
be determined experimentally through:
Plumb Line Method
Balancing
Plumb Line Method
Hang the irregularly
shaped object from
one point.
Using a string that is
hung lose to the
ground, trace a line
down through the
object.
Plumb Line Method
Repeat the procedure
for two to three times
hanging the object
from different points
each time.
Balancing
Center of Gravity
The CG of an object is NOT always located
within the object.
Center of Gravity
For humans, the CG is usually located at the
navel but varies as the body assumes different
positions.
Stability
To prevent an object from toppling over, the
Center of Gravity of an object should be within its
area of support.
Stable
Unstable!
How can an
object or
body be
made
stable?
Stability
Lower Center of Gravity
Stability
Wider Area of Support
Which is more stable?
How can an
object or
body be
made
stable?