Why Do Pylons Collapse in Extreme Temperatures?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the phenomenon of electricity supply pylons collapsing under extreme temperatures, specifically focusing on the physics principles that might explain this occurrence. The original poster seeks to understand the underlying reasons for such structural failures.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the equation p=F/A to analyze the effects of ice buildup on cables and its potential impact on pylons. Some participants inquire about the materials used for pylons and whether the elasticity of steel varies with temperature.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants exploring different aspects of the problem, including material properties and the effects of temperature on structural integrity. No consensus has been reached, and various interpretations are being considered.

Contextual Notes

The original question is open-ended and does not specify material properties, leading to discussions about the common use of steel in pylons and its temperature-dependent characteristics.

CheesyPeeps
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Homework Statement


Extreme temperatures have been known to cause some electricity supply pylons to collapse. Using your knowledge of physics, comment on why this happens.
(This question is an 'open-ended' question and is worth three marks. One must explain the possible possible reason(s) for what is described in the question)
(SQA National 5 Physics Specimen Paper)

Homework Equations


Assuming that 'extreme temperatures' means extremely cold temperatures, p=F/A could be used to show that a build up of ice on the cables connecting the pylons would put pressure on the cables and potentially pull a pylon down.

The Attempt at a Solution


Explaining why p=F/A could be used gives me one mark, but after that, I'm stumped.
 
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What material are these pylons made of ?
 
It doesn't say anything about material, although in my country, they tend to be steel.
 
Is the elasticity of steel dependent on the temperature ?
 

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