IG Phy – Center of Gravity

The center of gravity for objects with a regular shape is located at the center of the object.

The center of gravity of an object can be found by hanging the object from different points and marking the vertical line through the suspension point.

An object in stable equilibrium will return to its original position after being displaced.

An object in neutral equilibrium remains in its new position after being displaced.

An object in unstable equilibrium returns to its original position after being displaced.

The concept of the center of gravity is not important in determining whether an aircraft is safe to fly.

For an aircraft to be safe, its center of gravity must fall within the limits set by the manufacturer.

The weight of fixed parts of an aircraft, such as engines and wings, changes during flight.

Excess weight can make it difficult for an aircraft to take off from a given length of runway.

All passengers in a half-empty airplane should sit at the back for better balance.