Assume a diatomic molecule can be considered to be two point masses separated by a distance r. The center of mass of the system is located a distance x from m₁, equal to A) m₁r/(m₁ + m₂) B) m₂r/(m₁ + m₂) C) (m₁ + m₂) r/m₁ D) (m₁ + m₂) r/m₂ E) r(m₂/m₁)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The center of mass of a system of two masses, $m_1$ and $m_2$, separated by a distance $r$, is given by the formula $x = \frac{m_2 r}{m_1 + m_2}$. This formula calculates the distance of the center of mass from mass $m_1$, taking into account the relative masses and the separation between them. Choice B correctly represents this relationship.

Assume a Diatomic Molecule Can Be Considered to Be Two