Question

Two particle of masses 4 kg and 8 kg are separated by a distance of 12 m. If they are moving towards each other under the influence of a mutual force of attraction, then the two particles will meet each other at a distance of

Answer 1

The acceleration on each mass depends upon the mass of other particle as well as the separation between them. since when they are moving towards each other the separation will decrease and the force will keep on increasing. Hence they will meet at the center of mass of the system.

Hence distance of center of mass from 8 kg particle,

x = (4 x 12 + 8 x 0)/(4+8)

= 48/12

= 4 meters

Hence both the particles will meet at a distance of 4 meter from the 8 kg particle.

Answer 2

x = m2d+m1d/m1+m2
=4×12+8×0/4+8
=48+0/12
=48/12
=4m
Hence the distance is 4m from 8kg