<P> A body 's center of gravity is the point around which the resultant torque due to gravity forces vanishes . Where a gravity field can be considered to be uniform , the mass - center and the center - of - gravity will be the same . However , for satellites in orbit around a planet , in the absence of other torques being applied to a satellite , the slight variation ( gradient ) in gravitational field between closer - to ( stronger ) and further - from ( weaker ) the planet can lead to a torque that will tend to align the satellite such that its long axis is vertical . In such a case , it is important to make the distinction between the center - of - gravity and the mass - center . Any horizontal offset between the two will result in an applied torque . </P>
where is the center of gravity located on the body
the point around which the resultant torque due to gravity forces vanishes