Why do some electricity pylons collapse in extreme temperatures ?

[fiveirvines4]

Homework Statement

Using physics knowlege, why do some electricity pylons collapse in extreme temperatures.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

Don't know the physics formulas or equations that could be used. High winds would force the pylons to collapse as the structure hasn't been made to withstand highwinds of extreme speeds. Also snow could fall on them turning to ice making them heavy and then collapsing. Not sure how to explain this in physics terms. answer is for 3 marks in SQA National 5 Physics (Scotland)

Thank you so much

 

[gneill]

Is this a question from a current SQA National 5 Physics test?

 

[fiveirvines4]

Electric pylons and extreme weather

It is from the sqa specimen paper on the sqa website, but the answer states its open ended with no more hints.

 

[gneill]

It is from the sqa specimen paper on the sqa website, but the answer states its open ended with no more hints.

Okay. Just checking.

Think about what materials make up pylons and what they are connected to. How do temperature changes affect those materials?

 

[Nickie]

for your question! I am happy to provide a response to the question of why some electricity pylons may collapse in extreme temperatures.

First, it is important to understand that electricity pylons are designed and built to withstand certain environmental conditions, including temperature changes. However, in extreme temperatures, the materials used in the construction of pylons may experience changes in their physical properties, which can lead to structural failure.

One of the main factors that can cause pylons to collapse in extreme temperatures is thermal expansion. This is the phenomenon where materials expand when they are exposed to higher temperatures and contract when they are exposed to lower temperatures. In extreme heat, the metal components of pylons can expand significantly, putting stress on the structure and potentially causing it to buckle or collapse.

On the other hand, in extreme cold temperatures, the metal components of pylons can contract, which can also put stress on the structure. This can be further exacerbated if the temperature changes rapidly, as the metal may not have enough time to adjust to the new conditions.

Another factor that can contribute to pylon collapse in extreme temperatures is the accumulation of ice and snow. As you mentioned in your attempt at a solution, when snow and ice build up on the pylons, it can add significant weight to the structure. This added weight can exceed the design limits of the pylon and cause it to fail.

In addition to these factors, high winds can also contribute to pylon collapse in extreme temperatures. As the wind speed increases, it exerts a greater force on the pylons, which can cause them to bend or break. This is especially true if the wind is combined with other factors, such as thermal expansion or ice accumulation.

In summary, electricity pylons can collapse in extreme temperatures due to a combination of factors, including thermal expansion, contraction, ice and snow accumulation, and high winds. These factors can put stress on the structure and exceed its design limits, leading to failure. Understanding these principles can help engineers design and construct pylons that are better equipped to withstand extreme temperatures.