Classical Dynamics of Particles and Systems · Problem 11-13

Coupled Oscillations — Marion & Thornton

Physics — Mechanics · inertia-tensor-three-particle-system

Problem

A three-particle system consists of masses

m_i

and coordinates

(x_1, x_2, x_3)

as follows:

m_1 = 3m, \quad (b, 0, b)

m_2 = 4m, \quad (b, b, -b)

m_3 = 2m, \quad (-b, b, 0)

Find the inertia tensor, principal axes, and principal moments of inertia.