Two ice skaters, Tom of mass 90 kg standing at the origin and Jerry of mass 50 k

Question

Two ice skaters, Tom of mass 90 kg standing at the origin and Jerry of mass 50 kg and standing at x = 10 m, "throw" a 10 kg ball back and forth. Originally, with Jerry holding the ball, the center of mass (COM)of the system is at x = 4 m. Assuming the ice to be frictionless, describe the motion of the COM as Jerry throws the ball to Tom. While the ball is in the air, the COM moves toward Tom. The COM is at x = 3 m the instant that Tom catches the ball. The COM stays at x = 4 m until Tom catches the ball, then it moves toward Jerry. While the ball is in the air, the COM moves away from Tom. The COM remains fixed at x = 4 m throughout the action described.

Explanation / Answer

the forces exerted by the ball are the internal forces

the internal force cannot bring any change in COM

the COM remains fixed at x = 4 m

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