Question

Two particles of masses m1 and m2 separated by a horizontal distance d are released from the same height h at the same time. Find the vertical position of the center of mass of these two particles at a time before the two particles strike the ground. Assume no air resistance. a) h b) h/2 c) h/3 d) h/4

Answer 1

The vertical position of the center of mass is the same as the individual particles and is equal to h.

Step-by-step explanation:

The vertical position of the center of mass of two particles of masses m₁ and m₂, separated by a horizontal distance d and released from the same height h at the same time before the two particles strike the ground, can be found using the concept of center of mass.

Since the particles have the same initial height and are released at the same time, the center of mass will be at the same height as the individual particles. Therefore, the vertical position of the center of mass is h.

So, the correct answer is a) h.