Two identical bodies A and B of equal masses have initial velocities v1=4 i m/s and v2=4 j m/s respectively. The body A has acceleration a1=6 i+6 j m/s2 while the acceleration of the other body B is zero. The centre of mass of the two bodies moves in path.
- circular
- parabolic
- straight line
- elliptical
Answer
(3) straight line
Solution
vcm= m v1+m v22m= 4 i+4 j2=2 i+2 j m/s
acm= m a1+m(0)2m=3 i+3 j m/s2
⇒ acm=1.5 vcm, i.e. the constant acceleration is along the initial velocity.
∵ An acceleration along the velocity changes only the speed, never the direction of motion
∴ The centre of mass moves in a straight line.
Answer: (3)