Center of mass of two particle system (q45)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the center of mass for a two-particle system. The mathematical definition of the center of mass is essential, followed by taking derivatives to determine both velocity and acceleration. The formula used is Ma_cm = Σ(m*a), which effectively relates the acceleration of the center of mass to the individual masses' accelerations. The problem was successfully solved using this approach, confirming the solution as option c.

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  • Knowledge of derivatives in calculus
  • Familiarity with Newton's second law of motion
  • Basic concepts of particle dynamics
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jack1234
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Hi, I do not know how to get started for the following question,
http://tinyurl.com/yueh5m
can somebody help?
 
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Start with the mathematical definition of center of mass. Then take a derivative to find the velocity of the center of mass. And another derivative to find its acceleration. Once you see how the acceleration of the center of mass relates to the accelerations of the individual masses, then you can solve this problem.
 
Thanks, using the formula Ma_cm = summation of individual ma, has helped me successfully solved the problem. it is c.
 

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