Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 1]PhysicsCentre of Mass, Linear momentum, Collision
Examine the following two equations: (A) R = 1 M _ i m_i r _i (B) a _ CM = F M In a noninertial reference frame,
Options
- Aboth equations are correct
- Bequation A is correct but B is incorrect
- Cequation B is correct but A is incorrect
- Dboth equations are incorrect
Correct answer
B. equation A is correct but B is incorrect
Step-by-step solution
Equation (A) represents the definition of the position vector of the center of mass. It is a purely geometric relation and remains valid in all reference frames, whether inertial or non-inertial. Equation (B) represents Newton's second law for a system of particles. In a non-inertial reference frame, pseudo forces must be taken into account along with the real external forces. The correct equation in a non-inertial frame is M a _ CM = F _ ext + F _ pseudo . Thus, equation (B) is incorrect in a non-inertial frame. T