If the location of the center of mass relative to the ends matters, would the optimum position be in the middle, or closer to the side which the force is applied?jbriggs444 said:The location of the center of mass relative to the ends matters. But so does the degree to which the mass is centralized. Both are relevant. One can even write an equation.
Try it. Apply an impulse "p" at right angles to one end of a rod of length "l" and mass "m" with center of mass offset "r" from the end where the impulse will be applied. If the rod has a moment of inertia "I", what speed will the other end have as a result?
Edit: Take it a step at a time. For instance, what rotation rate will result from the applied impulse?
Sorry, you are going to have to put some effort of your own into this problem. Until you do, I'm out.Erunanethiel said:If the location of the center of mass relative to the ends matters, would the optimum position be in the middle, or closer to the side which the force is applied?