Finding center of mass of surface of sphere contained within cone.

In summary, the problem is to find the center of mass of a sphere within a cone, with a given density proportional to the distance from the z axis. The solution involves using spherical coordinates and integrating over the surface of the sphere. The unknowns δ and dS can be determined by finding the distance from the z axis to a specific point on the sphere, as well as using the equations for spherical coordinates.
  • #1
s3a
818
8

Homework Statement


Problem (also attached as TheProblem.jpg):
Find the center of mass of the surface of the sphere x^2 + y^2 + z^2 = a^2 contained within the cone z tanγ = sqrt(x^2 + y^2), 0 < γ < π/2 a constant, if the density is proportional to the distance from the z axis.

Hint: R_cm = ∫∫_S δR dS / ∫∫_S δ dS, where δ is the density.

Solution:
The solution is attached as TheSolution.jpg.

Homework Equations


Spherical coordinates:
x = p sinϕ cosθ, y = p sinϕ sinθ, z = pcosθ
∫∫_E∫ f(x,y,z) dV = ∫∫_E∫ f(p sinϕ cosθ, p sinϕ sinθ, p cosθ) p^2 sinϕ dp dθ dϕ

The Attempt at a Solution


The first thing I'm stuck on is knowing what δ and dS are. How do I determine what those are (without “cheating” and looking at the solution)?

Any input would be greatly appreciated!
 

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  • #2
s3a said:

Homework Statement


Problem (also attached as TheProblem.jpg):
Find the center of mass of the surface of the sphere x^2 + y^2 + z^2 = a^2 contained within the cone z tanγ = sqrt(x^2 + y^2), 0 < γ < π/2 a constant, if the density is proportional to the distance from the z axis.

Hint: R_cm = ∫∫_S δR dS / ∫∫_S δ dS, where δ is the density.

Solution:
The solution is attached as TheSolution.jpg.

Homework Equations


Spherical coordinates:
x = p sinϕ cosθ, y = p sinϕ sinθ, z = pcosθ
∫∫_E∫ f(x,y,z) dV = ∫∫_E∫ f(p sinϕ cosθ, p sinϕ sinθ, p cosθ) p^2 sinϕ dp dθ dϕ

That isn't a relevant equation. Surface integrals are double integrals, not triple integrals. The radius of the sphere given as ##a##.

The Attempt at a Solution


The first thing I'm stuck on is knowing what δ and dS are. How do I determine what those are (without “cheating” and looking at the solution)?

Surely your text gives ##dS## for spherical coordinates. As for ##\delta##, what is the point on the ##z## axis nearest to ##(x,y,z)##? What is the distance from that point to ##(x,y,z)##? You could answer that in rectangular coordinates and change it to spherical, or write it directly from the figure in spherical coordinates as the solution does.
 

Related to Finding center of mass of surface of sphere contained within cone.

1. What is the center of mass of a sphere contained within a cone?

The center of mass of a sphere contained within a cone is the point at which the mass of the sphere is evenly distributed in all directions. It is the point where the sphere can be balanced without tipping over.

2. How do you find the center of mass of a sphere contained within a cone?

To find the center of mass of a sphere contained within a cone, you will need to use the formula for the center of mass of a solid hemisphere. This formula takes into account the radius and height of the cone, as well as the radius of the sphere. You will also need to consider the density of the materials used.

3. Can the center of mass of a sphere contained within a cone be outside of the sphere?

Yes, it is possible for the center of mass of a sphere contained within a cone to be outside of the sphere. This can happen if the cone is very tall and the sphere is located near the tip of the cone. In this case, the center of mass will be closer to the base of the cone.

4. Why is it important to find the center of mass of a sphere contained within a cone?

Finding the center of mass of a sphere contained within a cone is important for understanding the stability and balance of the object. It can also be useful in engineering and physics applications, such as determining the distribution of forces and moments on the object.

5. Can the center of mass of a sphere contained within a cone change?

Yes, the center of mass of a sphere contained within a cone can change if the dimensions or density of the cone or sphere are altered. It will also change if the object is tilted or rotated. However, if the object is symmetrical and there are no external forces acting on it, the center of mass will remain in the same position.

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