Find the change in height of a bridge

In summary, on a winter day at 5.0 C, a bridge with a steel framework that is 500.000m long is built with the two ends anchored in rock and has a hinge at its center. Using a coefficient of thermal expansion of 11.0x10^-6/ dC for steel, the length of the bridge on a summer day at 55.0 C is 500.275m and one half of the bridge at 55.0 C is 250.138m. To find the distance y that the hinge is above its original position when the bridge is at 55.0o C, a right-angled triangle can be used with the vertical line through the hinge and the horizontal
  • #1
frozen-pizza
7
0

Homework Statement


A bridge with a steel framework is 500.000m long on a winter day at 5.0 C. For steel use 11.0x10^-6/ dC a) Find the length of the bridge on a summer day when the bridge temperature is 55.0 C. Keep 6 significant figures in this part and in part b). The bridge is built in the winter with the two ends anchored in rock and it has a hinge at its center. In the summer at 55.0 C the bridge will be raised as shown below. b) How long is one half of the bridge at 55.0 C? c) Find the distance y that the hinge is above its original position when the bridge is at 55.0o C.

Homework Equations


dL=L1*11x10^-6*dC

The Attempt at a Solution


for a i got 500.275 m and for b 250.138, iam having problems with part c
i thought that i could use a 30 30 triangle to find the height but it is not working out
 
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  • #2
frozen-pizza said:
a 30 30 triangle
you o not know the angle, so that is not going to work.
Did you draw a diagram? Do you see a right-angled triangle in it?
 
  • #3
yea the angle at the line drawn between the hinges right?
 
  • #4
frozen-pizza said:
yea the angle at the line drawn between the hinges right?
That's not very clear. I assume you mean a vertical line through the hinge makes a right angle with the horizontal line between the end supports.
Call the end points A, B, the hinge H, and the point where the right angles are O. So AOB is the line of the bridge in winter.
How far is AO? How far is AH? What relates them to the y=OH?
 

1. What causes a change in height of a bridge?

The change in height of a bridge can be caused by various factors such as natural phenomena like erosion and earthquakes, or human activities like construction and maintenance work.

2. How is the change in height of a bridge measured?

The change in height of a bridge is usually measured by using surveying techniques, such as differential leveling or laser scanning, to determine the elevation difference between two points on the bridge.

3. Why is it important to monitor the change in height of a bridge?

Monitoring the change in height of a bridge is important because it can indicate structural damage or deterioration, which if left unnoticed, can lead to safety hazards and costly repairs.

4. What are some methods used to mitigate the change in height of a bridge?

Some methods used to mitigate the change in height of a bridge include reinforcing the structure, adding support columns or beams, and implementing regular maintenance and inspection programs.

5. How often should the change in height of a bridge be monitored?

The frequency of monitoring the change in height of a bridge depends on several factors, such as the age and condition of the bridge, as well as its location. In general, it is recommended to monitor the bridge at least once a year.

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