Balance
Learn about balance in this video from the physics section of Science-U’s virtual “Designing the Future” camp!
For more information or how to do the activity mentioned in the video, check out this page.
Check your knowledge!
What is the center of gravity of an object?
The center or gravity (or center of mass) of an object is the point where all of the gravitational force of an object essentially acts upon. We can find the center of gravity of an object by finding one point to support it.
How do we make an object balanced and stable?
To make a stable balanced object, we want the center of gravity to be directly below the pivot point.
About the Scientist
Associate Teaching Professor, Department of Physics
Dr. Stephen J. Van Hook is a physicist whose passion is sharing the joy of physics with students of all ages, from kindergarten to college. He is an Associate Teaching Professor of Physics at Penn State and earned his M.A. in physics from the University of California at Berkeley and his Ph.D. in physics from the University of Texas in Austin.
During the Summer of 2020, Science-U held its first-ever virtual summer camp. This video is part of the “Designing the Future” camp, where campers learn about how physics, manufacturing, additive design, and programs such as Computer-Aided Design (CAD) can help scientists and engineers create new innovations and inventions.