Unsolvable: The Physics of a Hanging Rod and String Dilemma Explained

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the physics of a hanging rod and string system, specifically addressing why both cannot align in the same direction simultaneously. Participants clarify that the system behaves as a multiple pendulum, where the rod and string possess distinct degrees of freedom. The inability for both to remain aligned is attributed to external forces, such as wind, which introduce turning forces that disrupt alignment. The conversation emphasizes the complexity of analyzing systems with multiple degrees of freedom compared to simpler systems.

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Feynmanfan
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I don't know how to solve this rigid solid problem

Let there be a rod hanging of a string fixed to a certain point. Why is not possible for both the string and the rod to be in the same direction all the time. (it is common sense that it's impossible but how can I prove it?)

Thanks a lot!
 
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"Be in the same direction" is a little unclear to be honest. Think about separate x,y and z components of the rod and the string. Assuming the setup is perfect (i.e the string is attached to the rod at the center of one of its ends, no exturnal forces are acting on it other then gravity, uniform density of both parts etc) there is no reason why it wouldn't hang straight down their y axis. If there was to be any exturnal force... i.e wind, then the rod (being of bigger size) would exprience a larger force and hence you would get turning forces which would change the rods direction. Maybe I'm missing something here
 
also... you said "to be in the same direction all the time"... what is changing over time to make any difference?
 
I think that the others said it you cannot get a clear answer to an unclear question --- plus your name sake would NEVER do that. !
 
Feynmanfan said:
I don't know how to solve this rigid solid problem

Let there be a rod hanging of a string fixed to a certain point. Why is not possible for both the string and the rod to be in the same direction all the time. (it is common sense that it's impossible but how can I prove it?)

Thanks a lot!
Basically, in this case, you can regard the string as a MULTIPLE pendulum (more correctly a chain), each component pendulum having one degree of freedom. Adding to that the degree of freedom the stiff rod has, what you're basically asking is why a system with multiple (practically, infinite) degrees of freedom won't behave as a system with only one degree of freedom...
 
I believe by "Be in the same direction" he means the string and pendulum stay lined up, acting as a single longer pendulum. Prove why they won't.
 

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