Centre of Gravity & Stability Flashcards
Definition
What is center of gravity?
Center of gravity can be defined as that point in a body where all the weight seems to act. (CG)
Asymmetrical Body
CG in an Asymmetrical Body
The center of gravity for asymmetrical body can be found by the point of intersection of the lines of symmetry.
Types of Equilibrium & Stability
What are the types of equilibrium?
- Stability Equilibrium
- Unstable Equilibrium
- Neutral Equilibrium
Types of Equilibrium & Stability
Stable Equilibrium
- Its centre of gravity rises when displaced.
- The line of action of its weight never moves outside of the object’s base.
- The object returns to its original position after displacemnet.
Types of Equilibrium & Stability
Unstable Equilibrium
- Its centre of gravity falls when displaced.
- The line of the action of its weight moves outside of a object’s base & therefore will give rise to a moment.
- The object does not return to its original position thereby toppling over.
Types of Equilibrium & Stability
Neutral Equilibrium
- Its centre of gravity remains in the same position when displaced.
- The line of action of its weight does not move.
- The object stays in its original position.
Stable Equilibruim - Stability
What is Stability?
Stability is the ability of an object to return to the reast position after it has been displaced.
Stability
Factors that affect stability:
- The position of the center of gravity
- The size of the object’s base.
Stability
The position of the CG
An object with a lower centre of gravity will be more stable then one whose centre of gravity is higher.
Stability
The size of the object’s base
A wider base will increase The stability of an object as opposed to a narrow one.
Calculating the CG of an asymmetrical body
What is a Plumb Line?
A plumb line is a line which a weight hanges and is used as a reference point to determine a vertical line.
