What happens to the center of mass after a collision?

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SUMMARY

The center of mass of an object remains stationary unless there is a change in its mass distribution or shape. During a collision, the center of mass can shift due to temporary or permanent changes in the object's shape. After a collision, the center of mass does not necessarily return to its original position; it depends on the nature of the collision and the resulting changes in the object's structure.

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  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly mechanics
  • Familiarity with the definition and properties of center of mass
  • Knowledge of collision types (elastic and inelastic)
  • Basic grasp of mass distribution and its effects on motion
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  • Research the principles of elastic and inelastic collisions
  • Study the effects of shape changes on center of mass during collisions
  • Explore mathematical models for calculating center of mass
  • Learn about conservation laws related to momentum and energy in collisions
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Students of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of collisions and the behavior of center of mass in physical systems.

exparrot
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Hi! I'm trying to understand the concept of the center of mass. I know the center of mass is the point within the object where it could be considered that the entire mass of the object lies, thus forces are going through this center, but how is it possible that the center of mass could move before a collision? Additionally, if it does do that, what happens to it after a collision? Does it go back to its original point? How does all that work out? Thanks in advance!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
the centre of mass of an object does not move unless the mass distribution of the object or it's shape changes. During a collision it could be possible for the object's shape to change temporarily or permanently, which could cause a change of the position of the centre of mass.
 

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