What happens if force is applied anywhere other than through the point of fixation?

When a force is applied to an object at a point other than its center of mass or the point of fixation, it creates a torque around that point. Torque is the rotational equivalent of linear force and depends on the distance from the point of application of the force to the point of rotation, as well as the angle at which the force is applied. This rotational motion causes the object to rotate around its axis or pivot point.

The application of force off-center disrupts the object's balance and leads to a change in its rotational state. In contrast, if the force were applied directly through the point of fixation, the object would be more likely to either remain in a state of equilibrium or accelerate linearly without rotational movement. Thus, applying force away from the point of fixation directly results in rotation rather than maintaining the object's original position or movement states.