Physics Lab: Center of Gravity

Teacher: Mr. Kotch

Student Name:__________________________Block:___________Date:___________
Objective
To perform various activities to better understand the concept of Center of Gravity and to determine each
students individual center of gravity (mass)
Procedure 1: Win by a Nose
Kneel on the floor with legs folded underneath. Place elbows at knees and extend arms. Place a whiteboard marker at the tip of your fingers. Sit back up on your knees and lock your fingers behind your back.
Now try to bend forward and knock over the marker with your nose.
Results: Record your observations
Procedure 2: The Chair lift
Place a chair sideways to the wall. Have a student stand over the chair, but do not allow their feet to be
under the chair. Have this student place their head against the wall, bend over at the waist and try to pick
up the chair and stand up.
Results: Record your observations
Procedure 3: Backed against a wall
One student stands with their back straight against the wall. Place a coin on the floor at their feet and tell
them to pick it up.
Results: Record your observations
Procedure 4: Lean on Me (or a wall)
One student will stand with one side (leg and arm) pressed tightly against the wall. Have them try to lift
the outside leg straight out from the wall.
Results: Record your observations
Procedure 5: Backpack
Repeat procedures 1, 2 and 4 while wearing a backpack. You can try wearing the backpack on your back or
on your front.
Results: Record your observations
Procedure 6: Potatoes and Center of Gravity
Using 2 forks, a piece of potato and a toothpick, find and demonstrate the center of gravity to your teacher
by finding the balance point on the toothpick.
Results: Record your observations
Discussion
Part 1: Write an introduction Paragraph: Include the following:
What is the definition for the center of gravity? Is this different than the center of mass?
How the center of mass is usually different for boys versus girls in regards to body location? How is this
demonstrated in your class results?
Part 2: For each procedure in the lab, give a brief explanation of WHY you think the results occurred.
Explain possible differences between lab partners.