Max Height for Steel Wire: .5kg Object

In summary, the problem involves an object of mass .5 kg being lifted a distance h and then dropped, creating a 'jerk'. The goal is to find the largest value of h that will not cause the steel wire, which is 2m in length and .5mm in diameter, to break. The relevant equations are F = -kx = ma, h = mgLo/AY, and k = -AY/Lo. To solve the problem, the object's speed when it reaches the end of the wire must be calculated first, which can then be used to determine how far the wire stretches. This problem is similar to calculating the lowest height reached by a bungee jumper.
  • #1
Physics2013
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Homework Statement


An object of mass .5 kg is hung from the end of a steel wire 2m in length and .5mm in diameter. The mass is lifted a distance h and then dropped (creating a 'jerk') What is the largest value of h if you don't want the wire to break?
Ultimate Strength: 1.1E9 N/m^2
Young's Modulus: 2E11n N/m^2
g=9.8 m/s^2
A=Pi(r^2) = Pi(0.0625) mm^2 = Pi(6.25E-5) m^2

Homework Equations


F = -kx = ma
h=mgLo/AY
k= -AY/Lo

The Attempt at a Solution


I know the ultimate strength may not be exceed w/o wire breaking. So
Force(down) < or = 2E11 N/m^2

But, I am unsure of what the force(down) would be with the given information.
Force(down)=mgh ?
= (AY/Lo) x , where x=2h ?
 
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  • #2
When the object reaches the bottom of the wire (2m below the hang point), it's going to start stretching the wire. You can think of the stretching wire as a spring. How far it stretches depends on how fast the object is moving when the wire starts to stretch, and that in turn depends on how high the object was dropped from.

So one way to solve this problem would be to consider it in two parts: first figure out how fast the object is going when it reaches the end of the wire, then figure out from that how far the spring stretches. (Alternatively, it is possible to solve the problem without explicitly finding the speed of the object)

If you've ever solved a problem that involved calculating the lowest height reached by a bungee jumper, you'll find that this is nearly the same thing.
 

1. What is the maximum height that a .5kg object can reach when attached to a steel wire?

The maximum height that a .5kg object can reach when attached to a steel wire depends on several factors including the length and thickness of the wire, the strength of the wire material, and the initial velocity of the object. However, in most cases, the maximum height will be limited by the weight of the object and the force of gravity acting on it.

2. How does the thickness of the steel wire affect the maximum height of the object?

The thickness of the steel wire can affect the maximum height of the object in two ways. First, a thicker wire will be able to support a heavier object, therefore allowing it to reach a higher height. Second, a thicker wire will have less stretch or give, which can also affect the maximum height that the object can reach.

3. What is the role of the initial velocity of the object in determining the maximum height?

The initial velocity of the object plays a crucial role in determining the maximum height it can reach when attached to a steel wire. A higher initial velocity will give the object more kinetic energy, allowing it to overcome the force of gravity and reach a greater height. However, factors such as air resistance and the strength of the wire must also be taken into consideration.

4. Is there a specific equation or formula to calculate the maximum height for a .5kg object on a steel wire?

There are several equations and formulas that can be used to calculate the maximum height for a .5kg object on a steel wire. These include the equations for potential energy, kinetic energy, and work. However, the most accurate way to determine the maximum height would be through experimentation and taking into account all of the variables involved.

5. Can the maximum height for a .5kg object on a steel wire be increased by using a different material for the wire?

Yes, the maximum height for a .5kg object on a steel wire can be increased by using a different material for the wire. Materials with a higher tensile strength, such as titanium or carbon fiber, will be able to support more weight and allow the object to reach a greater height. However, other factors such as the thickness and length of the wire must also be considered.

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