System with varying mass - String

In summary, the system involves a string with varying mass that is placed near a hole on a horizontal and smooth table. By using the momentum equation and integrating it, we can find functions for the velocity and position of the string in terms of time and length under the table. The velocity of the string when the whole string leaves the table can be found by setting y = 0. The time when the whole string leaves the table can be found by setting v = 0.
  • #1
Microzero
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System with varying mass --- String

A string of mass M and length L is placed near a hole on the top of a horizontal and smooth table. A slight disturbance is given to one end of the string at time t = 0 so that it leaves the table through the hole. Assume the string on the table remains at rest while the remaining part is moving down. Denote the length of the string under the table as y and the speed of the string that is moving down by v.

Find:
1. v as a function of y
2. y as a function of t
3. the velocity of string when the whole string leaves the table
4. the time when the whole string leaves the table

[ Use the D.E. dy/dx + y P(x) = Q(x) to solve the problem. ]

I don't know how to do the first 2 questions. Please give me some ideas.
~ Thank you ~
----------------------------------------------
Here is my idea:
By considering the momentum
Fext= M dv/dt + (v-u) dM/dt -----★
(Resnick, Halliday--Physics 4th edt., Ch.9)
Fext= Mg , u=0 (remaining part rest at table)
dM/dt = ρdy/dt
∴ ★ becomes :
dv/dt + v(1/L)dy/dt = g
 
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  • #2
integrating this equation, we get:v = gt + C where C is an integration constant. From the initial condition, we can obtain v = gt when y=0 Therefore, we get v = gt + C - (g/L)yt 1. v as a function of y : v = gt + C - (g/L)yt 2. y as a function of t : y = (1/L)(C/g - v/g)t 3. The velocity of string when the whole string leaves the table : v = gt + C 4. Time when the whole string leaves the table : t = (C/g)L
 
  • #3

(1/L)dy/dt = v-g
dy/dt = L(v-g)
y =∫L(v-g)dt
y = Lvt -1/2g t^2
v = dy/dt = L(dv/dt) - gt
 

1. What is a system with varying mass - string?

A system with varying mass - string is a physical system that consists of a string with varying mass attached to it. This system is often used in physics experiments to study the behavior of a string under different conditions.

2. How does a system with varying mass - string work?

In this system, the string is usually attached to a fixed point on one end and a mass on the other end. The mass can be varied by adding or removing weights, causing the string to stretch or contract. This creates tension in the string, which can be measured and studied.

3. What are the uses of a system with varying mass - string?

A system with varying mass - string is commonly used in physics experiments to study the properties of strings, such as tension, frequency, and wavelength. It can also be used to demonstrate concepts like energy transfer and resonance.

4. How does the mass of the string affect the system?

The mass of the string can affect the tension and frequency of the system. A heavier string will have a higher tension and lower frequency, while a lighter string will have a lower tension and higher frequency. The mass of the string also affects the speed of waves traveling through it.

5. What are some real-life applications of a system with varying mass - string?

This system is commonly used in musical instruments, such as guitars and violins, where the tension and mass of the strings can be adjusted to produce different notes and tones. It is also used in engineering to study the behavior of structures under varying loads and forces.

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