Center of mass without calculus has basically only 1 formula?

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SUMMARY

The center of mass (COM) can be calculated without calculus using a straightforward formula: the sum of each mass multiplied by its respective distance from a chosen point, divided by the total mass. This method applies to both the X and Y coordinates in a two-dimensional space. Participants in the discussion confirmed that this formula is sufficient for understanding COM without the need for calculus. The simplicity of the formula may lead some to question the necessity of attending mechanics classes.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically mass and distance.
  • Familiarity with two-dimensional coordinate systems.
  • Basic arithmetic skills for performing calculations.
  • Knowledge of the concept of total mass in a system.
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore applications of the center of mass in real-world physics problems.
  • Study the differences between center of mass and center of gravity.
  • Learn about the implications of COM in multi-body systems.
  • Investigate how COM calculations change in three-dimensional space.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the center of mass without advanced calculus techniques.

Femme_physics
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So we're about to start learning the center of mass without calculus. I already know the formula= you consider each mass times the respective distance from a chosen distance, divided by the total mass. You do that for the X and Y in 2D.

Is that all I need for COM without calculus?
 
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Ah...thanks. That's pretty lame though if that's all there is to non-calculus COM... wonder if I should even bother to come to mechanics class tomorrow, but I will just in case.
 

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