Does the Center of Mass Change When a Person Moves?

In summary, the center of mass of a flexible body is not fixed and can change depending on the position of a person's arms, legs, and body. It can even be located in the air. For example, in a v-shape position, the center of mass is likely to be outside of the body.
  • #1
something_about
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hi,Center of mass is supposed to be this one particular point that behaves as if the whole body mass was located there. Since human body is not rigid does its center of mass change when for example person raises his/her arms or leans forward?

thank you
 
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  • #2
The center of mass of a flexible body is not a fixed point. It definitely changes as a person changes the position of his/her arms and legs. Realize that it's not a point necessarily inside the body: it could very well be in the air. (Consider a person bent into a v-shape: feet and hands on the ground, butt in the air. Where's the center of mass likely to be?)
 
  • #3
Doc Al said:
(Consider a person bent into a v-shape: feet and hands on the ground, butt in the air. Where's the center of mass likely to be?)

Between person's butt cheeks? :)

Kidding. It's not inside person's body

Can you help me with other thread also :) ?

thank you
 

FAQ: Does the Center of Mass Change When a Person Moves?

Does the center of mass change if an object is rotated?

Yes, the center of mass will change if an object is rotated. This is because the position of each individual particle within the object will change, affecting the overall position of the center of mass.

Will the center of mass change if an object is cut in half?

Yes, the center of mass will change if an object is cut in half. This is because the distribution of mass within the object will change, altering the location of the center of mass.

Does the center of mass change if an object's shape is altered?

Yes, the center of mass will change if an object's shape is altered. This is because the distribution of mass within the object will change, affecting the overall position of the center of mass.

Can the center of mass change if an object is in motion?

Yes, the center of mass can change if an object is in motion. This is because the position of each individual particle within the object will change as the object moves, affecting the overall position of the center of mass.

Does the center of mass change if an external force is applied to an object?

Yes, the center of mass will change if an external force is applied to an object. This is because the force can cause the object to accelerate and its position to change, ultimately affecting the location of the center of mass.

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