Alternative approach to analyzing a massless string

In summary, the problem involves finding the equation for the variation in tension of a massless string rotating about a pulley with a coefficient of static friction. The usual method of solving involves integrating Newton's law, but this cannot be directly applied to the problem due to a different relationship between T1 and T2.
  • #1
Amin2014
113
3
Consider a massless string which can rotate about a fixed pulley (first picture). The coefficient of static friction is μ. Assuming that the motion is impending, the goal is to find the equation that describes the variation in tension of the string.
( T2/T1 = eμΦ where Φ is the subtended angle.)

The usual method of solving this problem involves writing Newton's law for an infinitesimal element of the string and then integrating. In the second picture I've provided an extract from a different problem. Why can't we apply the solution provided in the second picture to the original problem stated above?
 

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  • #2
Here's my own solution:
N Cos β =μ N Sinβ therefore tan β = 1/μ
Writing Σ M = 0 about the point of application of R and taking the radius of the pulley to be r we have :
T2 ( r - rCos β) = T1 (r + r Cosβ)
dividing by r and rearranging:
T2 = T1 (1 + Cosβ) / ( 1 - Cos β)
Which yields a different relation between T1 and T2 than the method of integration.
 

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  • #3
Amin2014 said:
Consider a massless string which can rotate about a fixed pulley (first picture). The coefficient of static friction is μ. Assuming that the motion is impending, the goal is to find the equation that describes the variation in tension of the string.
( T2/T1 = eμΦ where Φ is the subtended angle.)

The usual method of solving this problem involves writing Newton's law for an infinitesimal element of the string and then integrating. In the second picture I've provided an extract from a different problem. Why can't we apply the solution provided in the second picture to the original problem stated above?
Click on "alternative Solution.png", for better image quality.
 

1. What is an alternative approach to analyzing a massless string?

An alternative approach to analyzing a massless string is to use the principle of virtual work, which involves calculating the work done by virtual displacements rather than actual displacements. This method is often used in engineering and physics to solve problems involving systems with complex or unknown constraints.

2. How does the principle of virtual work apply to a massless string?

The principle of virtual work can be applied to a massless string by considering the string as a series of infinitesimal segments, each with a virtual displacement. By summing the work done by each segment, the total work done by the string can be determined, allowing for the analysis of the string's motion and forces.

3. What are the advantages of using the principle of virtual work for analyzing a massless string?

One advantage of using the principle of virtual work is that it allows for the analysis of systems with complex or unknown constraints. Additionally, it can provide a more efficient and elegant solution compared to traditional methods. It also allows for the consideration of virtual displacements, which may not be possible in physical experiments.

4. Are there any limitations to using the principle of virtual work for analyzing a massless string?

One limitation of using the principle of virtual work is that it assumes the string is perfectly massless, which may not be the case in real-world scenarios. It also relies on the assumption that the string is in equilibrium, which may not always be true. Additionally, it may not be suitable for systems with highly non-linear behavior.

5. How can the principle of virtual work be applied to real-world scenarios involving massless strings?

The principle of virtual work can be applied to real-world scenarios by using simplified models and assumptions. For example, in engineering, it can be used to analyze the forces and motion of a cable supporting a bridge. In physics, it can be used to study the behavior of a massless string in a simple pendulum system. However, it is important to consider the limitations and potential errors of using this method in practical applications.

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