Consider a system of two particles having masses m 1 and m 2 . If the particle of mass m 1 is pushed towards the mass centre of particles through a distance d, by what distance would the particle of mass m 2 move so as to keep the mass centre of particles at the original position ?
Text Solution
Verified by ExpertsB
The system of two given particles of masses m 1 and m 2 are shown in figure.
Initially the centre of mass
r CM = 
....(i)
When mass m 1 moves towards centre of mass by a distance d, then let mass m 2 moves a distance d ′ away from CM to keep the CM in its initial position.
So, r cm = 
....(ii)
Equation Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get
= 
⇒ –m 1 d + m 2 d ′ = 0
⇒ d ′ = 
.
Note: If both the masses are equal i.e., m 1 = m 2 , then second mass will move a distance equal to the distance at which first mass is being displaced.
Prepare Smarter with CGP Edu
Get practice questions, solutions, and test series in one place.
Write a Review
Share your experience with this question and solution.
Commentary
Send your comment, doubt, correction, or feedback to admin.
Similar Questions
Explore conceptually related problems