ESS : Factors affecting Stability

What is the centre of mass?

• The point where the distribution of mass is equal in all directions

• The point where the distribution of weight is equal in all directions

• The point where the gravitational force is strongest

• The point where the body is most stable

What affects the centre of gravity?

• The distribution of mass

• The height of the centre of mass

• The size of the base of support

• The gravitational field

Where can the centre of mass or gravity lie?

• Only inside the body

• Only at the centre of the body

• Only outside the body

• Inside or outside the body

How can a football player manipulate their centre of mass?

• By standing still

• By raising their hands above their head

• By bending their knees

• By lowering their arms

What is stability?

• The ability to move quickly

• The ability to resist disruption to equilibrium

• The ability to maintain a low centre of gravity

• The ability to jump higher

Which sport requires maintaining stability?

• Swimming

• Football

• Wrestling

• Basketball

What is the effect of greater body mass on stability?

• Decreases inertia

• Increases stability

• Increases speed

• Decreases stability

What is the base of support?

• The length of the athlete's arms

• The height of the athlete

• The width of the athlete's shoulders

• The area of the ground enclosed by the points of contact with the athlete’s body

How does the size of the base of support affect stability?

• The size of the base has no effect on stability

• A smaller base increases stability

• A larger base decreases stability

• A larger base increases stability

What happens when the centre of gravity is lowered?

• The athlete becomes faster

• The athlete becomes taller

• Stability increases

• Stability decreases