Center of Mass of Three Beads Equation

In summary, three beads of different masses are placed on the vertices of an equilateral triangle. A symbolic equation for the horizontal position of the center of mass relative to the left vertex of the triangle is xcm = (m1x + m2x + m3x)/Mn, where Mn is the total mass of the system. This equation can be used to determine the horizontal position of the center of mass by plugging in the values for the masses and their respective positions.
  • #1
starJ9
3
0
OP warned about not including an attempt at a solution

Homework Statement



Three beads are placed on the vertices of an equilateral triangle of side d = 1.8 cm. The first bead of mass m1 = 150 g is placed on the top vertex. The second bead of mass m2 = 55 g is placed on the left vertex. The third bead of mass m3 = 85 g is placed on the right vertex.

Write a symbolic equation for the horizontal position of the center of mass relative to the left vertex of the triangle.

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Homework Equations



xcm = m1x + m2x + m3x...+mnxn / Mn

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Hello star! Welcome to PF. :)
Good start, this equation. Since we are dealing with three masses, you can stop at 3. But we are also dealing with two dimensions, so we need something similar for the y coordinate. And I think I am missing some brackets -- at least if ##M_n = \Sigma_i m_i##

Furthermore, PF rules dictate that you show an actual attempt at solution (otherwise we would be in trouble with all teachers all over the place). No problem in your case: just fill in some numbers to see what you get !
 

Related to Center of Mass of Three Beads Equation

What is the concept of center of mass?

The center of mass is a point where the entire mass of a system can be considered to be concentrated. It is the point around which the system's mass is evenly distributed in all directions.

How is the center of mass of three beads determined?

The center of mass of three beads can be determined by finding the average position of the three beads, taking into account their individual masses and distances from each other.

Why is the center of mass important in physics?

The center of mass is important in physics because it allows us to simplify the analysis of complex systems by considering them as a single point. It also helps us understand the motion of objects and predict how they will behave under external forces.

What happens if the center of mass of three beads is outside of the system?

If the center of mass of three beads is outside of the system, it means that the system is unbalanced and will experience rotational motion. This can occur if the beads have unequal masses or are not equidistant from each other.

Can the center of mass of three beads change position?

Yes, the position of the center of mass of three beads can change if there is an external force acting on the system. This can cause the beads to move relative to each other, changing the average position of the system's mass.

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