Solving Tension in Chain Homework

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining whether a chain used in an amusement park ride can withstand the tension generated by the weight of the chair and rider while spinning. The context includes a rotating tower and a specified maximum weight for the system.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the forces the chain must handle and the need to calculate tension based on the system's parameters, including mass, radius, and velocity. Some express uncertainty about how to incorporate angles and the necessary equations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different approaches to calculate tension. Some have suggested using free body diagrams and identifying key variables, while others are questioning the definitions and relationships between those variables.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the absence of an angle in the problem setup, which may complicate the calculations. There is also a mention of needing to clarify definitions related to the system's motion.

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Homework Statement



You have a new job designing rides for an amusement park. In one ride, the rider's chair is attached by a 9.0-m-long chain to the top of a tall rotating tower. The tower spins the chair and rider around at the rate of 1 rev every 4.0 s. In your design, you've assumed that the maximum possible combined weight of the chair and rider is 150 kg. You've found a great price for chain at the local discount store, but your supervisor wonders if the chain is strong enough. You contact the manufacturer and learn that the chain is rated to withstand a tension of 3000 N.

Is the chain strong enough?


Homework Equations


w=v/r
Fr=Tcos(theta)
Fz=n-Fg=0


The Attempt at a Solution


Find tension that is supported by the system, and compare it to the 3000N.
 
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How would you think to start to figure the Tension?

What forces must the chain handle?
 
I know that Fr=Tcos(theta)
Fz=n-Fg=0
So the T=Fr/cos(theta)
But I don't have an angle.
I have a radius, and I have a mass, and I can find a velocity using the 1 revolution=4.0 seconds.
I am not sure how to go about this.
 
You must write TWO equations to find the tension and the angle.
Sum of the horizontal forces = mv^2/r
Sum of the vertical forces = 0
 
The place to start this problem is with a 3-D free body diagram. Also, you need to be very clear on your definitions of r, theta, omega, etc.
 

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