1. Suspended Plumb Bob:
    • Description: A plumb bob is a weighted object, often with a pointed tip, suspended from a string. When at rest, the plumb bob aligns vertically, with its center of gravity directly beneath the suspension point.
    • Observation: The string hangs perfectly vertical when the plumb bob is at rest, indicating that the center of gravity is directly below the suspension point.
  2. Leaning Tower of Pisa:
    • Description: The Leaning Tower of Pisa is an iconic example. Despite its tilt, the tower remains stable because its center of gravity is within its base.
    • Observation: The tower does not fall over because the center of gravity is carefully managed, ensuring stability.
  3. Stacked Blocks:
    • Description: Stacking blocks or bricks in a tower demonstrates the concept of the center of gravity. The tower is stable as long as the center of gravity remains above the base.
    • Observation: If you gradually remove blocks from the bottom, the tower becomes unstable and may topple when the center of gravity moves outside the base.
  4. Seesaw or Teeter-Totter:
    • Description: A seesaw is a classic example where children sit on opposite ends, and the plank balances around a pivot. The position of the children affects the center of gravity.
    • Observation: The seesaw remains level when the center of gravity on each side is balanced, but tilts if one person is heavier or lighter.
  5. Sitting on a Chair:
    • Description: When sitting on a chair, your body's center of gravity must be positioned over the chair's base to maintain stability.
    • Observation: Leaning too far to one side may cause the chair to tip over because the center of gravity has moved outside the base.

Further Reading