Question

A small sphere of radius R is held against the inner surface of a larger sphere of radius 6R. The masses of the large and small sphere are 4M and M respectively. This arrangement is placed on a horizontal table. There is no friction between any surfaces of contact. The small sphere is now released. Find the coordinates of the center of the larger sphere when the smaller sphere reached the other extreme position.

Answer 1

Center is at,

$X=L+X$

$=L+\frac{M\left(5R\right)}{4M-M}$

$=L+\frac{5MR}{3M}=L+\frac{5}{3}R$