Silly question about Cross-Product

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the calculation of angular momentum using the formula \( L = r \times mv \). The user seeks clarification on whether to multiply the result of the cross product \( r \times v \) by mass \( m \) or to distribute \( m \) to vector \( v \) before evaluating the determinant. The conclusion is that both approaches yield the same result, confirming the property of scalar multiplication in cross products: \( r \times (mv) = (mr) \times v = m(r \times v) \).

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Saladsamurai
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I just forget the rule here.

I am finding angular momentum by using r x mv

If I am using the determinant to evaluate r cross v, where does the mass come in? Do I just mulyiply the result of r cross v by m?

Or do I distribute m to my vector v and then use those values inside the determinant?
 
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It doesn't matter. m is just a number, so
r x (m v) = (m r) x v = m (r x v)
 

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