Stability and three types of stability, Condition for Stability

Stability

Stability is a measure of the body’s ability to maintain its original position.

The three types of stability are

a. Stable equilibrium

b. Unstable equilibrium

c. Neutral equilibrium

a. Stable Equilibrium

The frustum can be tilted through quite a big angle without toppling.

Its centre of gravity is raised when it is displaced.

The vertical line through its centre of gravity still falls within its base.

So it can return to its orginalpositionl.

b. Unstable Equilibrium

The frustum will topple with the slightest tilting. Its centre of gravity is lowered when it is displaced.

The vertical line through its centre of gravity falls outside its base.

c. Neutral Equilibrium

d. It causes frustum to topple.

e. The frustum will rolls about but does not topple.

f. Its centre of gravity remains at the same height when it is displaced.

g. The body will stay in any position to which it has been displaced.

Condition for Stability

* To make a body more stable

* Lower its centre of gravity Increase the area of its base

* This box is at the point of tipping over

* A heavy base lowers at the centre of gravity So the box does not tip over

* A brode base makes the box more difficult to tip over

The Thanjavur Doll

It is s type of traditional Indian toy made of terracotta material. The centre of gravity and the total weight of the doll is concentrated at its bottom most point, generating a dance-like continuous movement with slow oscillations.

Real Life Applications of Centre of Gravity

It is for the reasons of stability that the luggage compartment of a tour bus is located at the bottom and not on the roof. Extra passengers are not allowed on the upper deck of a crowded double decker bus. Racing cars are built low and broad for stability. Table lamps and fans are designed with large heavy bases to make them stable.