Chapter 11, Problem 45A

A long track balanced like a seesaw supports a golf ball and a more massive billiard ball with a compressed spring between the two as shown in the figure. The CG of the two-ball system is therefore directly above the point of support (the triangular fulcrum). When the spring is released, the balls move away from each other. As the balks roll outward, will the track remain in balance, or will it tip? What principles do you use for your explanation?

To determine

To Explain: Whether the track will remain in balance when the balls roll outward.

The principles used in the explanation.

Answer to Problem 45A

When the spring is released, the balls move away from each other,this will not imbalance the track as the center of gravity remains at the same position.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The average position of the weight of the object is considered as the center of gravity.

When the balls and spring are stationary, then the center of mass is over the pivot. When the spring is released, it applies the equal force on both the balls. The massive billiard ball moves slowly whereas the golf ball moves fastas per Newton’s second law of motion. The difference in the motion of the balls leaves the center of gravity at the same position as before. So, the track will remain in balance.

Conclusion:

Thus, the track will remain in balance.