Stability can be defined as the ability of objects to return to its original state if disturbed. If an object is more stable, it can be able to resist larger forces. Objects that are stable will not topple over because they have their weight concentrated low down. This point is called the centre of gravity and the lower it is, the more stable is the object.
An object is stable when its centre of gravity is located over its base. The lower an object’s centre og gravity is, complete to the height, the less likely it is to fall. The higher the object, the less stable it is. It means, the taller a structure is, the more it moves when forces like wind acts on it. The other factor that affects stability is based area. The wider the base area, the more stable the object is. The wider the bass of support, the easier it is to maintain balance.
Here are some examples of everyday life situations used to explain how base area and height affect the stability of a structure.
| Based area | Height |
| * A heavy weight lifter spreads his legs to add stability. | * Big animals such as elephant and rhinoceros have short legs to lower the centre of gravity for stability. |
| * The wide distance between the wheels of a racing car is to increase the base area of the car in order to maintain its stability when it is moving fast. | * Racing cars are designed with low bodies to lower the centre of gravity. |
| * Laboratory apparatus such as a conical flask and tripod stand has a wide base for the purpose of stability. | * Boat passengers are advised to sit when the boats for stability. |
| The cross sectional * A raft is more stable than a kayak because a kayak has less base area | |
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