[net.physics] Question...about tipping trucks

umdhep@eneevax.UUCP (Todd Aven) (08/21/85)

If you ignore the effects due to slipping tires, going around a corner and
leaning on a hill are phenomenologically the same. The Lev-O-Gage indicates
the direction of the applied force. If the angle indicated is greater than
the angle of the line from the center of gravity to the line between two
side tires (angle with respect to the vertical, first quadrant) then you
have an applied 'tipping' torque, and you better hang on tight. Of course, if
the average gage angle is less than the critical angle but you are skidding,
then you may get added impulse each time the tires grab. Similarly, on a hill
when you are sliding sideways, if your tires catch you receive a tipping
impulse as well.

So where's your center of gravity? Find out by tipping over (|:-)