Centre of mass of velocity (q61)

In summary, the centre of mass of velocity (q61) is a mathematical concept used to determine the average velocity of an object or system of objects. It takes into account the mass and velocity of each individual component and calculates the overall average velocity of the system. This concept is important in physics and engineering, as it helps to understand and predict the motion of objects and systems.
  • #1
jack1234
133
0
Hi, for the following problem
http://tinyurl.com/249gz8
the answer is d

What i have done is
Centre of mass of velocity
=(m1*v1+m2*v2)/(m1+m2)

but I am not sure how does it leads to the result d...
can anybody help on this?
 
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  • #2
It might be easier to view this conceptually. What if both masses had a speed of v1? Then the speed of the center of mass would be v1, right? But some of the total mass (m2) is moving faster, so what must happen to the speed of the center of mass?

And it works the other way as well. What if both masses had a speed of v2. Then the speed of the center of mass would be v2? But some of the total mass (m1) is moving slower, so what must happen to the speed of the center of mass?
 
  • #3
I see, thanks for the help :)
 

1. What is the definition of centre of mass of velocity?

The centre of mass of velocity, also known as the centre of velocity, is the point at which the total velocity of a system is considered to be concentrated. It is a hypothetical point that represents the average location and direction of the velocities of all the particles in a system.

2. How is the centre of mass of velocity calculated?

The centre of mass of velocity is calculated by taking the weighted average of the velocities of all the particles in a system. This means multiplying the velocity of each particle by its mass, adding all of these values together, and then dividing by the total mass of the system.

3. Why is the centre of mass of velocity important?

The centre of mass of velocity is important because it allows us to simplify the analysis of the motion of a system. By considering the system as a single point with a specific velocity, we can apply the laws of motion and easily predict the overall motion of the system.

4. Can the centre of mass of velocity be outside of the system?

Yes, the centre of mass of velocity can be located outside of the physical boundaries of the system. This can happen if there are external forces acting on the system or if the system is asymmetrical.

5. How does the centre of mass of velocity differ from the centre of mass of an object?

The centre of mass of velocity represents the average velocity of all the particles in a system, while the centre of mass of an object represents the average position of all the particles in a system. They are related, but not necessarily the same point in space.

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