ConceptConceptDocsDocuments

CAIE IGCSE Physics Centre of Gravity Question Bank

Practise locating the centre of gravity, drawing weight through it and explaining stability through centre height, base width and the weight line relative to the base.

Syllabus
2026–2028
Course
Physics 0625

Exam points

  • locate the single point through which the object's entire weight may be considered to act
  • draw the vertical line of action of weight and compare where it meets the supporting base
  • predict greater stability from a lower centre of gravity and wider base, then explain toppling

Covered syllabus points

1.5.3.1—What is meant by centre of gravity1.5.3.2—An experiment to determine the1.5.3.3—Qualitatively the effect of the

1.5.3 Centre of gravity question 1

[Maximum number: 1]

A large rectangular block of stone has a square base of side 3.4 m . Fig. 3.1 shows the block at rest on a horizontal surface.

Fig. 3.1

Fig. 3.1

The block is of uniform density and the centre of gravity G is at its centre.

Explain what is meant by centre of gravity.

1.5.3 Centre of gravity question 2

[Maximum number: 1]

A hole is made in a square tile of uniform thickness. The diagram shows the tile hanging loosely on a nail.

Where is the centre of gravity of the tile?

Figure for Question 1.5.3 Centre of gravity question 2 — CAIE IGCSE Physics

1.5.3 Centre of gravity question 3

[Maximum number: 2]

A radio transmitter is a very tall, thin cylinder. It is prevented from falling over by wires which have one end fixed to the transmitter and the other end fixed in the ground. The ends of the wires in the ground are a long distance from the transmitter.

Fig. 4.1 shows the transmitter and two of the wires.

Fig. 4.1

Fig. 4.1

Question (a)

(a)

The centre of gravity G is shown on Fig. 4.1.

[ 2 ]

Question (i)

(i)

State what is meant by centre of gravity.

[ 1 ]

Question (ii)

(ii)

Explain why the radio transmitter without the wires is a very unstable structure.

[ 1 ]
All question bank results loaded