JOURNAL ARTICLE

When does $${\textstyle{1 \over 4}}(\boldsymbol {a} + \boldsymbol {b} + \boldsymbol {c} + \boldsymbol {d})$$ give the centre of mass of a quadrilateral?

  • Published In: Mathematical Gazette, 2023, v. 107, n. 568. P. 162 1 of 3

  • Database: Mathematics Source 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Lord, Nick 3 of 3

Abstract

Having done the formula $${\textstyle{1 \over 3}}(\boldsymbol {a} + \boldsymbol {b} + \boldsymbol {c})$$ for the centre of mass of a uniform triangular lamina with vertices at position vectors a , b , c , I was recently asked in class whether $${\textstyle{1 \over 4}}(\boldsymbol {a} + \boldsymbol {b} + \boldsymbol {c} + \boldsymbol {d})$$ was the corresponding result for a uniform quadrilateral lamina. It is easy to give examples where the formula does work (squares, rectangles, parallelograms), but equally clear from examples such as the trapezium in Figure 1, where the centre of mass is located below the centre line on which $${\textstyle{1 \over 4}}(\boldsymbol {a} + \boldsymbol {b} + \boldsymbol {c} + \boldsymbol {d})$$ lies, that it does not always work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additional Information

  • Source:Mathematical Gazette. 2023/03, Vol. 107, Issue 568, p162
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
  • Publication Date:2023
  • ISSN:0025-5572
  • DOI:10.1017/mag.2023.30
  • Accession Number:161937309
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