Introduction
In this Section we show how the idea of integration as the limit of a sum can be used to find the centre of mass of an object such as a thin plate (like a sheet of metal). Such a plate is also known as a lamina . An understanding of the term moment is necessary and so this concept is introduced.
Prerequisites
- understand integration as the limit of a sum
- be able to calculate definite integrals
Learning Outcomes
- calculate the position of the centre of mass of a variety of simple plane shapes
Contents
1 The centre of mass of a collection of point masses1.1 Distribution of particles in a plane
2 Finding the centre of mass of a plane uniform lamina
2.1 Mass per unit area
3 Engineering Example 1
3.1 Suspended cable