Earth-Moon System, 1D40.35

Topic and Concept:

• Motion in Two Dimensions, 1D40. Motion of the Center of Mass

Location:

• Cabinet: Mechanic (ME)

• Bay: (A6)

• Shelf: #3

Abstract:

Two unequal masses are fastened to the ends of a rigid bar with two holes in the bar. One hole is at the rod's center. The other hole is at the center of mass of this two body system.

Important Setup Notes:

• N/A

Setup and Procedure:

1. Setup like in photos

Cautions, Warnings, or Safety Concerns:

• N/A

Demonstration:

Fasten the Holder for the Earth-Moon System to a Rod Stand. First slip the two-body system using the central hole and show that the heavier mass drops to the bottom and the system is now vertical. Now slip the two-body system into the other hole (the one at the center of mass) and show that the system is now balanced and can assume any orientation. One could spin the system at the center of mass but will just swing back and forth when in the central hole. One can then explain that any N-body system has a center of mass point.

Videos:

• Lecture Demonstration's Youtube Channel

References:

• List any references

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