Center of Mass Help: Understanding Concepts & Equations

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on understanding the concept of center of mass using the equation (m1x1 + m2x2) / (m1 + m2). Participants clarify that to determine the center of mass, one must know the masses (m1 and m2) and their respective position vectors (x1 and x2). It is established that if m2 is greater than m1, the center of mass will be closer to m2. A resource for further understanding is provided, linking to a webpage that explains the derivation of the center of mass equation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically mass and position vectors.
  • Familiarity with the center of mass equation (m1x1 + m2x2) / (m1 + m2).
  • Basic algebra skills for performing calculations.
  • Access to online resources for further learning, such as educational websites.
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of the center of mass equation on the provided webpage.
  • Practice calculating center of mass for different mass configurations.
  • Explore the concept of center of mass in three-dimensional space.
  • Investigate applications of center of mass in real-world physics problems.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the center of mass concept and its applications.

daniel1211
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i am having some trouble understanding the concepts of center of mass for example using the equation (m1x1+m2x2)/(m1+m2) if m2>m1 what would be the center of mass i am not sure where to even begin
 
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You have the correct equation. You need the two masses (m1 and m2) and their position vectors (x1 and x2). Once you have those, applying the equation is very simple math.
 
Without anymore information I think the only thing we could see is that the COM would be on the same plane as m1 and m2 and between the two masses but a little closer to m2 since it is the larger of the two.
 
daniel1211 said:
i am having some trouble understanding the concepts of center of mass for example using the equation (m1x1+m2x2)/(m1+m2) if m2>m1 what would be the center of mass i am not sure where to even begin

I recommend that you follow the derivation for the expression for the center of mass at a web page I created just to explain this subject. Its at

http://www.geocities.com/physics_world/mech/center_of_mass.htm

Try it for the case of two particles.

I'll be glad to help further if needed.

Pete
 
daniel1211 - I want to welcome you to the Physics Forums! :smile:

My all your experiences here be good ones.

Pete
 

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