Physics

Reduced Mass Calculator

Find the reduced mass of a two-body system.

Parameters Live Compute
Calculated Output
Reduced mass 1.2
Formula: μ = m₁·m₂ ÷ (m₁ + m₂)
Step-by-Step Breakdown
1. Values used:
2. Mass 1 = 2
3. Mass 2 = 3
4.
5. Reduced mass = 1.2
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Reduced mass turns a two-body problem into an equivalent one-body problem.

The math behind it

μ = m₁·m₂ ÷ (m₁ + m₂). It is always smaller than either individual mass.

Worked Example

2 kg and 3 kg → μ = 6/5 = 1.2 kg.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is it used?

Orbital mechanics, molecular vibrations and collision problems.

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