Chapter 11, Problem 10A

Where is the center of gravity of an object that hangs in equilibrium? For an object that stands in equilibrium?

To determine

The location of centre of gravity of an object that hangs in equilibrium and that stands in equilibrium.

Answer to Problem 10A

The centre of gravity for an object that hangs in equilibrium is below the point of suspension. For a standing object, the centre of gravity is above the support base.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The centre of gravity of a body is the point where all the forces that are acting on a body will be equal to zero.

If a body is suspended freely from a point on the body that hangs in equilibrium, it will hang such that the centre of gravity will be directly below the point of attachment. Because, in equilibrium the object will only be balanced, if the balancing point is directly below the centre of gravity. If not, the object will swing back. For the object that stands in equilibrium, the centre of gravity lies above the support base.

Conclusion:

Hence, the centre of gravity for an object that hangs in equilibrium is below the point of suspension. For a standing object, the centre of gravity is above the support base.