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If we calculate the total momentum of a composite system 
and then divide by the total mass, we obtain the velocity 
of the system-as-a-whole, which we call the 
velocity of the centre of mass.  
If we imagine ``running alongside'' the system 
at this velocity we will be ``in a reference frame 
moving with the centre of mass,'' where everything 
moves together and bounces apart [or whatever] 
with a very satisfying symmetry.  
Regardless of the internal forces of collisions, etc., 
the centre of mass [CM] will be motionless in this reference frame.  
This has many convenient features, especially for calculations, 
and has the advantage that the inifinite number of other possible 
reference frames can all agree upon a common description 
in terms of the CM.  Where exactly is 
the CM of a system?  Well, wait a bit until 
we have defined torques and rigid bodies, 
and then it will be easy to show how to find the CM.  
 
Jess H. Brewer 
1998-10-08