Center of mass of a semi circle using polar coordinates

In summary, to find the center of mass of a semi-circle of radius R using polar coordinates, we can use the formula \frac{\displaystyle (0.5)\int_{0}^{\pi}\left(\frac{2R}{3}\sin(\theta)\right)R^2\,d\theta }{\displaystyle (0.5)\int_{0}^{\pi}R^2\,d\theta}, where R is the radius of the semi-circle. This gives us the coordinates of the centroid: (\frac{2R}{3}\cos(\theta), \frac{2R}{3}\sin(\theta)).
  • #1
xdrgnh
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Homework Statement


Semi circle of Radius R given. Find center of mass using polar coordinates, not double integrals.

Homework Equations



.5 intergral(r^2dpheta)

(1/M) integral y dm

r=R

The Attempt at a Solution



.5(2/piR^2) integral(R^3sinpheta do pheta) from 0 to pi, when I evaluate it I don't get 4R/3pi
 
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  • #2
The centroid of a circular sector (circle of radius, r) subtending angle dθ at angle θ from the positive x-axis is given by:

[tex](\bar{x},\,\bar{y})=\left(\frac{2r}{3}\cos(\theta),\,\frac{2r}{3}\sin(\theta)\right)[/tex]

The following gives the y coordinate for a semi-circle of radius r, centered at the origin.

[tex]\frac{\displaystyle (0.5)\int_{0}^{\pi}\left(\frac{2r}{3}\sin(\theta)\right)r^2\,d\theta }{\displaystyle (0.5)\int_{0}^{\pi}r^2\,d\theta}[/tex]

Get the x coordinate from symmetry.
 
Last edited:

1. What is the formula for finding the center of mass of a semi circle using polar coordinates?

The formula for finding the center of mass of a semi circle using polar coordinates is (0, r/2), where r is the radius of the semi circle.

2. How do you convert from Cartesian coordinates to polar coordinates?

To convert from Cartesian coordinates (x, y) to polar coordinates (r, θ), use the formulas r = √(x^2 + y^2) and θ = arctan(y/x).

3. What is the significance of the center of mass in physics?

The center of mass is an important concept in physics as it represents the average position of all the mass in a system. It is used in calculations of momentum, torque, and other important physical quantities.

4. How does the location of the center of mass change with the shape of the object?

The location of the center of mass can vary depending on the shape and distribution of mass in an object. For symmetrical objects, the center of mass is often located at the geometric center, while for irregular shapes, it may be located closer to areas with higher mass.

5. Can the center of mass ever be located outside of the object?

In some cases, yes, the center of mass can be located outside of the object. This typically occurs in objects with non-uniform density or complex shapes. However, the center of mass will always lie on the line of symmetry for symmetrical objects.

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