Homework help on Moments of inertia of system

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the moment of inertia for a system of four masses positioned at the corners of a rectangle. The masses are 2.70 kg, 1.70 kg, 3.70 kg, and 2.10 kg. To find the moment of inertia about the x-axis, y-axis, and an axis through point O perpendicular to the page, one must apply the formula I = mR², where R is the distance from the axis to each mass. The center of mass is not required for this calculation; instead, each mass should be multiplied by the square of its distance from the respective axis, and the results summed.

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Homework Statement



Four masses are held in position at the corners of a rectangle by light rods.Find the moment of inertia of the system about the x axis.Find the moment of inertia of the system about the y axis.Find the moment of inertia of the system about an axis through O and perpendicular to the page. M1 (kg) M2 (kg) M3 (kg) M4 (kg) the picture is attached.
2.70 1.70 3.70 2.10

Homework Equations



I=mR2

The Attempt at a Solution


I wasn't really sure how to start. Should I first figure out the center of mass and then use that value to find the inertia?
 

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The center of mass has nothing to do with this. Just multiply each mass by the square of its distance from the appropriate axis and add all the terms together.
 

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