PHYSICS · Multi-part · CBSE · Physics · System of Particles and Rotational Motion · System of Particles and Rotational Motion
Problem
Two identical ice skaters, A and B, are initially at rest on a large frictionless ice rink. The skaters push off each other so that they glide in opposite directions.
(1) For a system consisting of both skaters together, indicate whether the force that skater A exerts on skater B is internal or external to the system. State your reasoning explicitly in terms of how the system boundary is defined.
(2) For a system consisting of skater A only, classify the force exerted on skater A by skater B as internal or external. Explain your choice.
(3) Consider the combined system of both skaters once they have separated and are gliding. Identify all external forces acting on this combined system and describe qualitatively how these forces affect the motion of the system’s center of mass.