Speed of Centre of Mass – Rankers Physics

Calculation of Center of Mass: Practice Problem & Solution

Two particles \(A\) and \(B\) initially at rest, move towards each other under mutual force of attraction. At an instance when the speed of \(A\) is \(v\) and speed of \(B\) is \(3v\), the speed of centre of mass is
\(v\)
\(4v\)
\(2v\)
Zero

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Calculation of Center of Mass. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

Since no external force acts on the two-particle system, the acceleration of the centre of mass is zero. Since the system started from rest, the speed of the centre of mass remains zero.

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