Friction free tug of war - result check

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on a physics problem involving two skaters of masses 65 kg and 42 kg on a 9.7 m pole. The center of mass is calculated to be 3.8 m from the 65 kg skater, confirming that the 42 kg skater moves 5.9 m towards the center of mass when they pull themselves along the pole. The conclusion emphasizes that, in the absence of external forces, the center of mass remains stationary. This principle is crucial for solving similar problems in mechanics.

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  • Understanding of center of mass calculations
  • Basic knowledge of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with mass distribution concepts
  • Ability to apply conservation of momentum principles
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding mechanics and the principles of motion in multi-body systems.

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Homework Statement


Okay left my book at home - foolishly thinking I had all my equations - oops

Two Skaters, one with mass 65kg and the other with mass 42kg stand on an ice rink holding a pole with a length of 9.7m and a mass that is negligible. Starting from the ends of the pole the scaters pull themselves along the pole until they meet. How far will the 42kg skater move?


Homework Equations



?

& [tex]\vec{}R[/tex]cm = [tex]\Sigma[/tex] mi[tex]\vec{}R[/tex][tex]/[/tex]mi


The Attempt at a Solution


Okay I've determined that the center of mass is 3.8m from the 65 kg mass.
Am I correct in thinking that 9.7-3.8 is the answer? I don't have a place to run through a sample and couldn't find one here.
 
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JWDavid said:
Two Skaters, one with mass 65kg and the other with mass 42kg stand on an ice rink holding a pole with a length of 9.7m and a mass that is negligible. Starting from the ends of the pole the scaters pull themselves along the pole until they meet. How far will the 42kg skater move?
…
Okay I've determined that the center of mass is 3.8m from the 65 kg mass.
Am I correct in thinking that 9.7-3.8 is the answer? I don't have a place to run through a sample and couldn't find one here.

Hi JWDavid! :smile:

Yes, there's no external force, so the centre of mass doesn't move!
 
thanks
 

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