How does the table’s weight distribution affect stability on uneven surfaces?

A table's stability on an uneven surface is fundamentally governed by the physics of its weight distribution. The primary goal is to keep the table's center of gravity—the point where its mass is concentrated—within the polygon formed by its support points (legs). Wider distribution of weight, particularly heavier components like the apron or a thick tabletop, lowers this center of gravity. A lower center of gravity makes it harder for off-axis forces (like a push or an uneven floor) to tip the table over, as more torque is required to rotate the mass.

Conversely, a top-heavy design with slender legs elevates the center of gravity, creating a precarious pivot point. On an uneven surface, where one or more legs may lose full contact, the effective support polygon shrinks. Proper weight distribution ensures the remaining legs can still anchor the shifted center of gravity, preventing a dangerous tilt or persistent wobble. This is why well-designed tables often feature substantial, splayed legs or a weighted base—they maximize the support area and maintain a low, stable centroid even when the ground beneath is not perfectly level. Ultimately, strategic weight placement is the unseen engineering that transforms a simple piece of furniture into a steadfast and reliable surface.