Q. Four point masses $P,\ Q,\ R\ $and $S\ $ with respective masses 1 kg, 1 kg, 2 kg form the corners of a square of side $a$. The center of mass of the system will be farthest from

A) $P$ only
B) $R\ $and $S$
C) $R$ only
D) $P\ $and $Q$
Explanation

(d) Centre of mass $C_{1}$ of the point masses placed at corners $P\ and\ S$ from point $P$
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$= \frac{1 \times 0 + 2 \times a}{1 + 2} = \frac{2a}{3}$
Therefore, distance of centre of mass $C_{1}$ from point $S$
$= a - \frac{2a}{3} = \frac{a}{3}$
Similarly, centre of mass $C_{2}$ of point masses placed at corners $Q\ and\ R,\ from\ point\ Q = \frac{2a}{3}$
Distance of centre of mass $C_{2}$ from point $R = a - \frac{2a}{3} = \frac{a}{3}$
Centre of mass of all four point masses is at the mid point of the line joining $C_{1}$ and $C_{2}$, which is farthest from points $P\ and\ Q$.

Dr. Abubacker
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker

Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist

Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.