Stability is closely related to the centre of gravity (mass) of an object. Stability refers to the ability of an object to regain its original position after it has been tilted slightly. To increase the stability of an object:
The centre of gravity should be as low as possible.
The area of the base should be as wide as possible.
These two factors will ensure that the vertical line through the centre of gravity of the object will lie inside the base of the object when it is tilted or inclined.
Suspended equilibrium
If an object is suspended in air and released it will come to rest with its centre of mass directly below the point of suspension. The object is then in equilibrium. Its weight does not exert a turning effect on the object because its centre of mass is directly below the point of suspension. If the object is turned from this position and then released, it will swing back to its equilibrium position . This is because its weight has a turning effect that returns the object to its equilibrium. The object is said to be freely suspended if it returns to its equilibrium position.