Walker, Halliday & Resnick — Center of Mass and Linear Momentum: Problem 2

Figure 9-24 shows a three-particle system, with masses \(m_1 = 2.0\text{ kg}\), \(m_2 = 4.0\text{ kg}\), and \(m_3 = 8.0\text{ kg}\). The scales on the axes are set by \(x_s = 2.0\text{ m}\) and \(y_s = 2.0\text{ m}\). What are (a) the \(x\) coordinate and (b) the \(y\) coordinate of the system’s center of mass? (c) If \(m_3\) is gradually increased, does the center of mass of the system shift toward or away from that particle, or does it remain stationary?