Determining Juliet's Weight Using Center of Mass Principle

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The discussion focuses on determining Juliet's weight using the center of mass principle in a canoe scenario. Romeo weighs 160 pounds and, after switching places with Juliet, the canoe shifts 0.444 feet to the left. The center of mass equation is applied, leading to an initial calculation of Juliet's weight at 142 pounds, which was later corrected to 128 pounds due to an algebraic error. The conclusion drawn is that Juliet weighs 128 pounds, based on the movement of the canoe and the weights involved. This approach effectively illustrates the application of physics principles to solve real-world problems.
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Homework Statement


The question is: Romeo and Juliet are dating on a canoe in a lake. They are 4 feet apart, and Romeo wants to see how much Juliet weighs. He is on the left, Juliet on the right. So, he decides to switch spots with her. After switching, the boat moves 0.444 feet to the left. Romeo weighs 160 pounds. How much does Juliet weigh?


Homework Equations



Center of mass= sum (mgx) /sum (mg)

The Attempt at a Solution


Since the center of mass remains the same, the center of mass of the initial position is equal to the center of mass of the final position, minus 0.444 (since it moved to the left 0.444 feet). After solving for x ( weight of Juliet), I got 142 pounds..is this right? Please help..it sounds right, since Romeo weighs 160 pounds, and the boat moved to the left 0.444 feet (due to friction, and romeo is heavier...) thanks!
 
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bump...please? any help?
 
Edit: I actually got 128 pounds, (little algebraic mistake). So, Juliet weights 128 pounds, is this correct..? Thanks!
 

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