Explain the motion of centre of mass. Write two examples.
Answers
Answer:
In physics, the center of mass of a distribution of mass in space (sometimes referred to as the balance point) is the unique point where the weighted relative position of the distributed mass sums to zero. This is the point to which a force may be applied to cause a linear acceleration without an angular acceleration. Calculations in mechanics are often simplified when formulated with respect to the center of mass. It is a hypothetical point where the entire mass of an object may be assumed to be concentrated to visualise its motion. In other words, the center of mass is the particle equivalent of a given object for application of Newton's laws of motion.
This toy uses the principles of center of mass to keep balance on a finger
In the case of a single rigid body, the center of mass is fixed in relation to the body, and if the body has uniform density, it will be located at the centroid. The center of mass may be located outside the physical body, as is sometimes the case for hollow or open-shaped objects, such as a horseshoe. In the case of a distribution of separate bodies, such as the planets of the Solar System, the center of mass may not correspond to the position of any individual member of the system.
The center of mass is a useful reference point for calculations in mechanics that involve masses distributed in space, such as the linear and angular momentum of planetary bodies and rigid body dynamics. In orbital mechanics, the equations of motion of planets are formulated as point masses located at the centers of mass. The center of mass frame is an inertial frame in which the center of mass of a system is at rest with respect to the origin of the coordinate system.
From the given question the correct answer is:
- The motion of the center of mass is the translation motion of the whole system.
- There is a single point known as the center of mass where the complex motion of which a system of the particle is capable.
- The center of mass is a useful reference point for calculations in mechanics that involve masses distributed in space.
- the center of mass is the particle equivalent of a given object for application of Newton's laws of motion.
- Example: tennis balls and put them a bit apart, you see that the center of mass of the two balls would be their center. If one of these balls was heavier, the center of mass will shift towards the heavier ball.
This toy uses the principles of center of mass to keep balance on a finger