Tension in a catenary

In summary, a catenary is a curve formed by a hanging chain or cable that is affected by tension and gravity. Tension shapes the distinctive curve of a catenary and is affected by factors such as the weight of the chain or cable, distance between ends, and angle of suspension. Tension can be calculated using the catenary equation and understanding it is crucial in fields such as engineering, architecture, physics, and mathematics.
  • #1
varadgautam
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0
How do I calculate the tension at the middle of a rope (weight=W) suspended at two points as a catenary? It's ends make angle A with the horizontal.
 

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  • #2
varadgautam said:
How do I calculate the tension at the middle of a rope (weight=W) suspended at two points as a catenary? It's ends make angle A with the horizontal.
What have you tried thus far?
 

1. What is a catenary?

A catenary is a curve that is formed by a hanging chain or cable when it is suspended by its ends and affected only by the force of gravity.

2. How does tension affect a catenary?

Tension is responsible for shaping a catenary into its distinctive curve. As the weight of the chain or cable pulls down, the tension increases and causes the curve to become more pronounced.

3. What factors affect the tension in a catenary?

The tension in a catenary is affected by the weight of the chain or cable, the distance between the two ends of the catenary, and the angle at which it is suspended.

4. How is tension calculated in a catenary?

The tension in a catenary can be calculated using the catenary equation, which takes into account the weight of the chain or cable, the distance between the ends, and the angle at which it is suspended.

5. What are some real-life applications of understanding tension in a catenary?

Understanding tension in a catenary is important in engineering and architecture, as it can help determine the strength and stability of suspended structures such as bridges and cable cars. It is also used in physics and mathematics to study the properties of curves and the effects of tension on various materials.

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