Question

Consider a system of two particles having masses m₁ and m₂. If the particle of mass m₁ is pushed towards the centre of mass particles through a distance d, by what distance would the particle of mass m₂ move so as to keep the mass centre of particles at the original position?

(A) (m₁/(m₁ + m₂))d

(B) (m₁/m₂)d

(C) d

(D) (m₂/m₁)d

Answer 1

Correct option (B)

Explanation:

The system of two given particles of masses m₁ and m₂ are shown in figure. Initially the centre of mass

Note: If both the masses are equal i.e., m₁ = m₂ , then second mass will move a distance equal to the distance at which first mass is being displaced.