The centre of gravity is the point in the structure where all of the weight can be thought to act. If movement of the structure occurs, it will pivot around fixed points at the base and the position of the centre of gravity is crucial.
When the centre of gravity is moved outside the vertical supports, then the structure will fall because there is a leverage effect acting on the structure. The following interactive feature applies this to the famous Tay Bridge disaster.
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http://media.open2.net/forensic_engineering/riddle/gravity.swf
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