Gravity acts downwards therefore the weight of any structure or any part of a structure acts vertically downwards. We assume that the whole weight of a structure acts through one point - the centre of gravity. The position of the centre of gravity will depend on the shape of the body.
The centre of gravity of an object does not necessarily have to be within a body, it can be an imaginary point in space.
The centre of gravity is very important in relation to stability. If a line through the centre of gravity falls within the structures base then it will remain stable.
If the line falls outside the structures base then there is a possibility that overturning will occur. This structure could be classified as unstable. 
In order to make such a structure stable precautions would have to be taken. One example is where part of the structure is secured to the base and this prevents overturning occurring.
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