Question

A system of two particles is having masses $m_{1}$ and $m_{2} .$ If the particle of mass $m_{1}$ is pushed towards the centre of mass of particles through a distance $d$, by what distance the particle of mass $m_{2}$ should be moved, so as to keep the centre of mass of particles at the original position?

• A. $\left(\frac{m_{1}}{m_{1}+m_{2}}\right) d$
• B. $d$
• C. $\left(\frac{m_{1}}{m_{2}}\right) d$
• D. $\left(\frac{m_{2}}{m_{1}}\right) d$

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

In two particles system, if the first particle is pushed towards the centre of mass through a distanced. Then to keep the centre of mass at the same position, the second particle should be moved by the distance
$=\left(\frac{m_{1}}{m_{2}}\right) d$