Centre of mass of this boomerang?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the center of mass for a boomerang using the equations for two-dimensional and three-dimensional systems. The participant initially attempted to apply the formula m1x1 + m2x2 / (m1 + m2) but struggled with the application due to confusion over coordinate systems. A key insight provided is to utilize the symmetry of the boomerang and to establish a consistent coordinate system for both sticks involved in the calculation. This approach is essential for obtaining an accurate center of mass.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of center of mass calculations in 2D and 3D
  • Familiarity with vector notation and operations
  • Knowledge of symmetry in physical objects
  • Basic principles of coordinate systems in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the center of mass formula m1x1 + m2x2 / (m1 + m2) in various coordinate systems
  • Learn about the implications of symmetry in calculating the center of mass for complex shapes
  • Explore vector addition and its role in determining the center of mass
  • Investigate the concept of uniform cross sections in rigid body dynamics
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, particularly those tackling mechanics and center of mass problems, as well as educators looking for insights into teaching these concepts effectively.

gamma-guy
Messages
8
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


I have an image with the question here: http://imgur.com/TGG9VTx.jpg
The red text is the answer. I haven't been able to get it without contradicting what I've been told.

Homework Equations


I know m1x1 + m2x / m1+m2 is centre of mass in 2d plane, but I don't know how that applies here. Also vectorR=vectorR1x1 +vectorR2m2 / m1 + m2 is for the 3d, but I don't know how to apply that as well. I am dumb

The Attempt at a Solution


tried using (20i + 2j + .25k) (dividing all components by 2) then multiplying by 150 (mass of block) twice then dividing by 300. didnt get the answer.

Then tried 150(20)+150(20) / 300, got 20 as answer. Wont get 10 unless I make x = 10, which I don't why I would do that.

ANY help appreciated. Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Since a boomerang is symmetric, why not take advantage of that?
Then, where is the center of mass of a stick with uniform cross section?
That should be enough hints to find the answer. :wink:
 
Tom.G said:
Since a boomerang is symmetric, why not take advantage of that?
Then, where is the center of mass of a stick with uniform cross section?
That should be enough hints to find the answer. :wink:
Thank you very much for the help, but I am afraid I am not quite sure i understand? :sorry:
 
gamma-guy said:
tried using (20i + 2j + .25k) (dividing all components by 2)
That will give you the mass centre of one stick in a particular coordinate system. But that coordinate system is tailored to that stick. You should get a very different answer for the mass centre of the other stick in that same coordinate system. You are not going to get a sensible result by adding up vectors from different coordinate systems, one for each stick.
Pick a coordinate system that makes sense for both sticks.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K