Solution
Related Formula
For a continuous system modeled as discrete point masses located at their respective centers of mass:
xcom = (m₁x₁ + m₂x₂)/(m₁ + m₂) ycom = (m₁y₁ + m₂y₂)/(m₁ + m₂)Core Logic
Let the uniform linear mass density of the rod be λ.
- Total length is 5L.
- One segment of length 2L lies on the x-axis. Its mass is 2m = λ(2L) and its center of mass is at (L, 0).
- The remaining segment of length 3L lies on the y-axis. Its mass is 3m = λ(3L) and its center of mass is at (0, 1.5L).
Step 1: Calculate COM Coordinates
Find the coordinates of the system's center of mass:
xcom = (2m(L) + 3m(0))/(2m + 3m) = (2L)/(5) = 0.4L ycom = (2m(0) + 3m(1.5L))/(2m + 3m) = (4.5L)/(5) = 0.9LGiven L = 10 ~cm:
xcom = 0.4 × 10 = 4 ~cm ycom = 0.9 × 10 = 9 ~cmStep 2: Vector Form
Expressing in vector notation:
rcom = 4 i + 9 jPattern Recognition
Sees: L-shaped rod formed by bending a total length Ltotal. Shortcut: Treat each arm as a point mass at its geometric midpoint. For segments of ratio 2:3, the COM divides the distance between their midpoints in the inverse ratio 3:2 closer to the heavier segment on the y-axis.
Chapter Mix
Class 11 Physics: System of Particles and Rotational Motion