Which statement describes tipping related to base and center of gravity?

• A. The tipping point occurs when the center of gravity passes past the base of the object
• B. The tipping point occurs when the center of gravity passes above the base
• C. The tipping point occurs when the center of gravity moves below the base
• D. The tipping point is unrelated to the base

Answer: (A)

Understanding tipping starts with the base of support and the center of gravity. The tipping point happens when the vertical line from the center of gravity falls outside the base of support. When the center of gravity moves beyond the edge of the base, gravity creates a tipping moment that makes the object rotate over that edge. If the center of gravity stays over the base, there’s no tipping tendency. That’s why describing tipping as the center of gravity passing past the base correctly identifies the condition that initiates a tip.