The discussion revolves around a problem involving two particles with masses of 2 kg and 3 kg, initially at rest, with a 6 N force applied to the 3 kg particle. Participants are exploring how to determine the speed of the center of mass after 5 seconds.
The discussion is active, with participants questioning assumptions about the system and exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the relationship between momentum and the center of mass, but no consensus has been reached on the specific calculations or definitions needed.
Participants are navigating the definitions and equations related to center of mass, with some expressing uncertainty about the foundational concepts necessary to solve the problem. There are also references to external resources for definitions, indicating a lack of clarity on the topic.
What is u?Avaron Cooper said:
Avaron Cooper said:
2kg ➡6N.Avaron Cooper said:
. 3kg
What is your understanding of the definition of "center of mass?" Can you provide a general equation for the location of the center of mass of a system of particles?Avaron Cooper said:
It's appropriate to search for that sort of thing on the web rather than ask on a forum. That said, some of the definitions I see out there are not very good. This one is ok: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Center_of_massAvaron Cooper said:
How did you think you were going to solve a problem involving center of mass if you don't even know it's definition?Avaron Cooper said:
I know what the center of mass is but I don't know any equation to find the center of mass. If I am going to find the center of mass I would take the torques and find it.Chestermiller said:
Momentum is additive. The momentum of the whole system is equal to the sum of the momenta of its component parts. So yes, if there are two pieces and one is stationary (zero momentum) then the momentum of the combined system is equal to the momentum of the other piece alone.Avaron Cooper said: