Why is it easier to balance a long pole (like a broom handle) on my palm that it is to balance a short stick on my palm?

Question

Why is it easier to balance a long pole (like a broom handle) on my palm that it is to balance a short stick on my palm?

In: 68

Answer 1

This is also why in Kerbal Space Program, you want your upper stages to have a decent amount of mass to them. Otherwise if you have a fat 1st stage, it is too easy for your rocket to flip over and lose control. Fins help, but only a little.