A high center of gravity:
Answers
Makes a vehicle more susceptible to rollover.
Is encouraged in inclement weather.
Is required on some roads.
Improves fuel efficiency.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
Makes a vehicle more susceptible to rollover.
Explanation:
A high center of gravity (CG) refers to the position of a vehicle’s weight distribution relative to the ground. When the center of gravity is high, such as in taller vehicles like SUVs, trucks, or buses, it increases the risk of rollover during sharp turns, sudden maneuvers, or when the vehicle’s tires lose traction. This is because a higher CG causes more of the vehicle’s weight to shift laterally when the vehicle is turning, increasing the force exerted on the tires. This imbalance can cause the vehicle to tip over more easily compared to vehicles with a lower CG, where the weight is closer to the ground and the vehicle’s stability is greater.
Vehicles with a high CG are particularly susceptible to rollover in situations like:
- Sharp turns or swerving: When a vehicle turns too sharply, the centrifugal force pushes outward, and a high CG means the vehicle is more likely to tip.
- Sudden maneuvers: Emergency lane changes or evasive actions can cause a vehicle with a high CG to lose stability.
- High-speed driving: Vehicles with a high CG are more likely to experience body roll (side-to-side motion) when driving at high speeds, making them more prone to tipping over.
On the other hand, a low center of gravity (as seen in sports cars and sedans) helps improve the vehicle’s handling, reduces the likelihood of rollovers, and generally enhances overall driving stability.
In inclement weather, the risk of rollover increases, but a higher CG is not encouraged in these conditions. Instead, vehicles are designed with various safety features to counteract this risk, such as stability control systems and reinforced frames.
Improving fuel efficiency or requiring a high CG on certain roads is not typically a goal in vehicle design; stability and safety are far more prioritized.