Two point masses are fixed on a horizontal line: a mass at and a mass at

PHYSICS · Single correct · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials

Problem

Two point masses are fixed on a horizontal line: a

2\,\text{kg}

mass at

x=-0.50\,\text{m}

and a

4\,\text{kg}

mass at

x=+0.50\,\text{m}

. Which of the following single changes would move the center of mass of the system toward the

+x

direction? (a) Move the

2\,\text{kg}

mass to

x=-0.80\,\text{m}

. (b) Move the

4\,\text{kg}

mass to

x=+0.30\,\text{m}

. (c) Remove the

2\,\text{kg}

mass from the system entirely. (d) Replace the

4\,\text{kg}

mass with a

3\,\text{kg}

mass at

x=+0.50\,\text{m}