Chapter 11, Problem 8A

Describe the motion of the center of mass of a fireworks projectile, before and after it explodes in midair.

To determine

The motion of center of mass of fireworks projectile before and after it explodes in midair.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The center of gravity of an object where whole weight of body is considered to be concentrated. For symmetrical object center of mass is at geometric center of the object. When object is thrown in air it wobbles around the center of gravity and the center of gravity of an object follows parabolic path.

When object is thrown in air, it wobbles around the center of gravity and the center of gravity of an object follows parabolic path. As the object thrown in air the center of gravity follows the smooth parabolic path before and after the fireworks projectile. Due to explosion, the internal force generated does not affect the path of center of gravity.

Conclusion:

The motion of center of mass of projectile before and after the fireworks is smooth parabola.