Find the center of mass of a thin plate of constant density

In summary, the task is to find the center of mass of a thin plate with constant density covering a triangular region in the first quadrant between the circle x^2 + y^2 = 4 and the lines x = 2 and y = 2. The equations x^2 + y^2 = 4 and x = 2 and y = 2 are used in the attempt at a solution, where x(bar) and y(bar) represent the center of mass coordinates. The problem is solved by first drawing a sketch of the region and determining the curves f(x) and g(x), which represent the top and bottom boundaries respectively. Then, one of the curves is solved for y to continue with the solution.
  • #1
whatlifeforme
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Homework Statement


Find the center of mass of a thin plate of constant density (δ covering the triangular region in this first quadrant between the circle x^2 + y^2 = 4 and the lines x=2 ; y=2.


Homework Equations


x^2 + y^2 = 4 and the lines x=2 ; y=2.



The Attempt at a Solution


x(bar) = integral(a to b) δ x (f(x) - g(x)) dx
----------------------------------
integral(a to b) δ (f(x) - g(x)) dx

y(bar) = (1/2) integral(a to b) δ (f(x)^2 - g(x)^2) dx
----------------------------------
integral(a to b) δ (f(x) - g(x)) dx

I am not sure how to start with this problem. should i solve for y first?
 
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  • #2
Draw a sketch of the region first. Then figure out what curve f(x) is on the top of your region and which what curve g(x) is on the bottom. And sure, to describe one of them you need to solve for y.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
thanks. solved.
 

Related to Find the center of mass of a thin plate of constant density

1. How is the center of mass of a thin plate of constant density calculated?

The center of mass of a thin plate of constant density is calculated by finding the average of the x and y coordinates of all the points on the plate. This can be done by dividing the total mass of the plate by the total area and using the weighted average formula.

2. What does the center of mass represent in a thin plate of constant density?

The center of mass represents the point at which the entire mass of the thin plate is evenly distributed. This means that if the plate were to be balanced at this point, it would be in equilibrium.

3. How does the shape of the plate affect the location of the center of mass?

The shape of the plate does not affect the location of the center of mass as long as the density is constant throughout. The location of the center of mass is only affected by the mass and distribution of the material, not its shape.

4. Is the center of mass always located within the boundaries of the thin plate?

Yes, the center of mass is always located within the boundaries of the thin plate. This is because the center of mass is calculated using the coordinates of all points on the plate, and therefore must be within the boundaries of those points.

5. Why is finding the center of mass important in physics and engineering?

Finding the center of mass is important in physics and engineering because it allows for the prediction and analysis of the motion and stability of an object. It is also a crucial factor in designing structures and machinery to ensure proper balance and distribution of weight.

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