GCE O Level

Centre of Gravity

Practical
Physics O Level

AIM
To determine the position of the centre of gravity of a
triangular card.

APPARATUS
1. Triangular card with three holes A, B, and C located at
the corners of the card
2. Pin
3. Wooden blocks
4. Plumb line
5. Half-metre rule

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Physics O Level

DIAGRAM

pin

A
triangular card
B
plumb line C

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Physics O Level

PROCEDURE
1. Suspend the triangular card from a pin through hole A
as shown in figure.
2. Suspend a plumb line from the pin.
3. Mark two points P and Q that lies directly behind the
plumb line onto the card.
4. Remove the plumb line and card and join PQ with a
line.
5. Suspend the card from hole B and repeat steps 2 to 4.

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Physics O Level

PROCEDURE
6. Label the intersections of the lines as G. This point is
known as the centre of gravity. It is the point where the
entire weight of the card seems to act.
7. Measure and record the distances from G to the
centres of holes A, B, and C.

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RECORD OF MEASUREMENTS

Length GA =

Length GB =

Length GC =

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Physics O Level

QUESTIONS
1. How did you ensure that the positions of the lines were
marked accurately?

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Physics O Level

QUESTIONS
2. How can you check that G is the centre of gravity of the
card?

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Physics O Level

QUESTIONS
3. State precaution(s) that you have taken to ensure
reliability of results.

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Physics O Level

QUESTIONS
4. Draw a conclusion about the position of the CG of a
suspended object.

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Physics O Level

To determine the position of the centre of gravity of a triangular card:

1.Place a heavy weight on retort stand to increase stability of the
system or secure the retort stand with G-clamps.
2.Set up the plumb line correctly without assistance.
3.Use wooden blocks to clamp the pin securely to the retort stand.
4.Ensure that the triangular card rotate freely.
5.Place a small ball of plasticine at the end of the pin to prevent
accidental injury.
6.Draw a third line on the card to verify the position of the centre of
gravity
7.Tighten boss and clamp effectively.
8.Position apparatus in a way that will not cause obstruction.
9.Position retort stands such that they will not topple easily

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