Why can't you put your heels firmly against a wall and then bend over without falling?
Standing straight, the center of gravity is approximately at the waist. When we lean forward, the top part of the body moves forward, the center of gravity is moved to a position in front of us. Gravity does the rest.
Explain why you can’t put your heels firmly against a wall and then bend over without falling
The reason you cannot put your heels firmly against a wall and then bend over without falling is due to the laws of physics. Specifically, it is related to your center of gravity and the distribution of weight.
When you stand upright, your body's weight is evenly distributed, and your center of gravity is typically located around your pelvic region, slightly above your hips. This positioning allows for stability as your body acts as a vertical column.
However, when you bend over, your center of gravity shifts forward. By bringing your heels against a wall, you create a fixed point of contact. As you bend forward, your center of gravity moves beyond the base of support provided by the wall and your feet, causing an imbalance. Consequently, if you continue to bend over, you will eventually lose your balance and fall forward.
To maintain balance, you need to have a base of support wider than your center of gravity or ensure that your center of gravity stays within your base of support. This can be achieved by maintaining a stable stance with your feet slightly apart and allowing for the necessary shifting of weight and adjustments of posture as you bend over or reach forward.