How does variable mass affect Newton's Second Law?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of Newton's Second Law, specifically addressing the effects of variable mass on force calculations. The law is expressed as F = dP/dt, leading to different outcomes based on whether mass (m) or velocity (v) is constant or variable. The correct interpretation, as clarified by participants, indicates that when both mass and velocity are variable, the correct formulation involves partial differentiation, leading to the conclusion that the answer is option (C) rather than (B). This resolution highlights the importance of applying the product rule correctly in physics problems involving variable quantities.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law of Motion
  • Familiarity with concepts of force, mass, and acceleration
  • Knowledge of differentiation, particularly partial differentiation
  • Basic grasp of calculus and its application in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of partial differentiation in physics problems
  • Learn about the product rule in calculus
  • Explore examples of variable mass systems in classical mechanics
  • Review advanced topics in Newtonian mechanics and their implications
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Students of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in the complexities of Newton's laws, particularly in scenarios involving variable mass systems.

coldblood
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Hi friends, The problem is from Newton's Laws.

The problem is as follows:
https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1006364_1417581381802301_666606151_n.jpg

IInd law states,
Force, F = dP/dt
=> F = d(mv)/ dt

Out come,

If m is constant, v is variable, F = m.[d(v)/dt] => F = m.a

If v is constant, m is variable, F = v.[d(m)/dt] => F = v.[rate of change of mass]

If both m and v are variable, F = m.[d(v)/dt] + v.[d(m)/dt]

Hence the answer of the question should be Option (B). But the book states that answer is option (C) is correct. How is it so.

Please friends help me in solving this issue.

Thank you all in advance. I would appreciate the help.
 
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\vec{v} is a variable. It is the instantaneous velocity at all times. So \vec{a}=\frac{d\vec{v}}{dt}. \lambda is the constant rate at which sand is leaking out. So the amount of mass that would be lost after a period t would be \lambdat.
 
Basic_Physics said:
\vec{v} is a variable. It is the instantaneous velocity at all times. So \vec{a}=\frac{d\vec{v}}{dt}. \lambda is the constant rate at which sand is leaking out. So the amount of mass that would be lost after a period t would be \lambdat.

So why not Option (B) is correct?
 
In your last step where you assume that both m and v are variable you should actually use partial differentiation, not ordinary differentiation.
 
Rewrite your original post with non-psychotic letters, please.
 
In applying the product rule the first mass will also be m not mo as in answer B.
 
I did that problem over and over and concluded that option C is correct and please, I half had a seizure reading the 1st post :/
 
Thank you all friends. The problem has been cleared. A apologize for the bad fonts.
 

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