Another Center of Mass problem What in the world

[shaka23h]

Chapter 7, Problem 56


The drawing shows a sulfur dioxide molecule. It consists of two oxygen atoms and a sulfur atom. A sulfur atom is twice as massive as an oxygen atom. Using this information and the data procvided in the drawing, find the y coordinate of the center of mass of the sulfur dioxide molecule. Express your answer in nanometers. (1 nm = 10-9 m).

http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/8702/ch07p56ob2.gif



I really need a hint on how to start this problem. I think I need to find one of the sides of the triangle?

Hate to bother u so much Doc but I really want to get these problems down.

Thanks

 

[radou]

Step 1: Find the definition of the center of mass.

 

[shaka23h]

The center of mass is a point that represents the average location for the total mass of a system.

 

[radou]

The center of mass is a point that represents the average location for the total mass of a system.

OK, how would you express that mathematically?

(Hint: http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/Hbase/cm.html" )

 

[shaka23h]

Well I understand the equation Ycm = m1y1 + m2Y2 + m3Y3/ m1+m2+m3.

but I dont' know how I'd go around applying it to this problem.

Thanks for the tips though

 

[radou]

Well I understand the equation Ycm = m1y1 + m2Y2 + m3Y3/ m1+m2+m3.

but I dont' know how I'd go around applying it to this problem.

Thanks for the tips though

If you understand the equation, then you should know how to apply it to the problem.

 

[shaka23h]

I can find the length of Y of the oxygen with Trig yes, but what is Y for sulfur?

Thanks

 

[Office_Shredder]

It should be obvious that's zero