Center of Mass: Weight Distribution for Bob & Charlie

In summary, the center of mass is a point in an object or system where the mass is evenly distributed, which allows for perfect balance regardless of orientation. It is calculated by finding the weighted average of individual masses and is important in understanding an object's behavior and stability. The center of mass is affected by weight distribution and directly relates to an object's balance.
  • #1
silentshimmer
3
0
Two paramedics, Bob and Charlie, carry a 200 lb patient on an 8-foot-long stretcher. Bob holds the front end of the stretcher and Charlie holds the back end. The patient lies closer to the front end of the stretcher, so his center of gravity is 3 feet from Bob's hands and 5 feet from Charlie's. How much of the patient's weight is carried by Bob and how much by Charlie?

where to start? what equation?
 
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  • #2
HINT: Torque
 
  • #3
The torques RXF about the cg must be equal in magnitude.
 

FAQ: Center of Mass: Weight Distribution for Bob & Charlie

What is the center of mass?

The center of mass is a point in an object or system where the mass is evenly distributed. It is the point at which an object will balance perfectly, regardless of its orientation.

How is the center of mass calculated?

The center of mass is calculated by finding the weighted average of the individual masses in an object or system. This is done by multiplying each mass by its distance from a reference point and then dividing the sum of these values by the total mass.

Why is the center of mass important?

The center of mass is important because it helps us understand how an object or system will behave under different conditions. It also allows us to determine the stability of an object and predict its motion.

How does weight distribution affect the center of mass?

Weight distribution refers to how the weight of an object or system is distributed. The position of the center of mass is affected by the distribution of weight, as it is calculated based on the individual masses and their distances from a reference point.

What is the relationship between the center of mass and balance?

The center of mass is directly related to an object's balance. If the center of mass is located above the base of support, the object will be stable and maintain its balance. However, if the center of mass is outside the base of support, the object will be unstable and may fall over.

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