Grade 10 Physics · Strand 1: Mechanics and Thermal Physics · Moments and Equilibrium
Factors Affecting Stability and Structural Design
A short Grade 10 Physics lesson for the CBE curriculum, part of Mechanics and Thermal Physics: Moments and Equilibrium. Learn it on any phone with notes and slides, then check yourself with a quick quiz and earn XP. This lesson is free.
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1. Which two factors mainly determine the stability of an object?
- A. Mass of the object and its colour
- B. Base area and height of the centre of gravity
- C. Volume of the object and its density
- D. Surface roughness and temperature
2. A matatu driver ties heavy sacks of maize on the roof rack. Why does this make the matatu more likely to roll over on a sharp bend?
- A. It raises the centre of gravity, so the weight line falls outside the tyres at a smaller tilt
- B. It reduces the base area between the wheels
- C. It lowers the centre of gravity of the matatu
- D. It makes the chassis lighter
3. An upright cone is nudged gently sideways and returns to its upright position. Why?
- A. Its centre of gravity drops, so it rolls onto its side
- B. Its centre of gravity stays at the same height
- C. Its centre of gravity rises, creating a restoring moment
- D. Its weight decreases during the nudge
4. A football rolls along a level pitch. Which type of equilibrium does it show?
- A. Stable equilibrium
- B. Unstable equilibrium
- C. Neutral equilibrium
- D. Critical equilibrium
5. What term describes an object overturning when the vertical line of action of its weight falls outside its base?
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