Calculate Strain of a Cable: 10-m Long w/ 25-N Sign

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the strain of a cable that is 10 meters long with a 25-N sign suspended from its middle, which stretches by 2.5 cm. Participants are exploring the concept of strain and its application in this specific scenario.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the formula for strain (ΔL/L0) and its relevance to the problem. Some express uncertainty about how to apply this formula to the given situation, while others question the definition of L in this context.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants seeking clarification on the application of strain and the parameters involved. There is a suggestion to draw a free body diagram (FBD) to aid in understanding the geometry of the situation.

Contextual Notes

Some participants are uncertain about the length of the cable in relation to the sagging caused by the weight of the sign, indicating a need for further exploration of the problem's setup.

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A 10-m long cable has a "No Hippos in the Pool" sign weighing 25-N suspended from the middle of the cable. The cable stretches by 2.5 cm. What is the strain in the cable?

I know strain is ΔL/L0, but don't really know how that plays out in this scenario. If you could give me the first step or so, that'd be great!
 
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pippintook said:
A 10-m long cable has a "No Hippos in the Pool" sign weighing 25-N suspended from the middle of the cable. The cable stretches by 2.5 cm. What is the strain in the cable?

I know strain is ΔL/L0, but don't really know how that plays out in this scenario. If you could give me the first step or so, that'd be great!

ΔL/Lo is strain, so it looks to me like that's all you need to do.

Strain is a measure of geometrical deformation right?
 
Well, my problem is more how I find L than how to find strain I guess.
 
pippintook said:
Well, my problem is more how I find L than how to find strain I guess.

It's not 10m ?
 
Draw a FBD showing the sagging cable and do a bit of geometry.
 

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