What does the term "center of mass" refer to in mechanics?

The center of mass refers to the average location of an object's mass distribution. It is the point at which the mass of the body is concentrated and can be thought of as the balance point for the object. When forces are applied, such as in the case of acceleration or rotation, this point plays a critical role in determining how the body will move.

In a uniform gravitational field, the center of mass aligns with the center of weight, making it a fundamental concept both in mechanics and dynamics. Understanding the center of mass is crucial for analyzing the stability and motion of an object, as it helps us predict how it will respond to external forces.