IGCSEPhysicsOxford AQARevision NotesForces & Their EffectsCentre of MassStability

Stability (Oxford AQA IGCSE Physics)

Revision Note

Leander Oates

Stability

  • The centre of mass of a symmetrical object is along the axis of symmetry

  • The position of the centre of mass affects the stability of an object

  • An object is stable when its centre of mass lies above its base

Centre of mass of an object in different positions

Stability, IGCSE & GCSE Physics revision notes
The object will topple when its centre of mass is no longer over its base

  • If the centre of mass does not lie above its base, then an object will topple over

  • The most stable objects have a low centre of mass and a wide base

Low centre of mass of car

Car with low centre of mass for IGCSE & GCSE Physics revision notes
Cars are stable because they have a low centre of mass and a wide base

  • Taller objects with a narrow base have a higher centre of mass and are less stable

    • This is why lorries and buses are advised not to use motorways and bridges on very windy days

Stability of object in different positions

Rectangular object positioned on its narrow base with a high centre of mass, and positioned on its wider base with a lower centre of mass
When the object is positioned on its narrow base the object is less stable because its centre of mass is higher

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    Leander Oates

    Author: Leander Oates

    Expertise: Physics

    Leander graduated with First-class honours in Science and Education from Sheffield Hallam University. She won the prestigious Lord Robert Winston Solomon Lipson Prize in recognition of her dedication to science and teaching excellence. After teaching and tutoring both science and maths students, Leander now brings this passion for helping young people reach their potential to her work at SME.

    Caroline Carroll

    Author: Caroline Carroll

    Expertise: Physics Subject Lead

    Caroline graduated from the University of Nottingham with a degree in Chemistry and Molecular Physics. She spent several years working as an Industrial Chemist in the automotive industry before retraining to teach. Caroline has over 12 years of experience teaching GCSE and A-level chemistry and physics. She is passionate about creating high-quality resources to help students achieve their full potential.