Uniform chain rising with constant velocity

In summary: So, in summary, to find the upward force exerted on the end of a uniform chain when one end is raised with uniform velocity v, you can use the equation T = λzg + λv^2, where z is the length uncoiled at any instant and λ is the linear density of the chain. This equation can be derived by using Newton's second law and integrating with respect to length.
  • #1
Dustgil
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Homework Statement


A uniform chain lies in a heap on a table. If one end is raised vertically with uniform velocity v, show that the upward force that mus be exerted on the end of the chain is equal to the weight of a length z + (v^2/g) of the chain, where z is the length that has been uncoiled at any instant.

Homework Equations


Newton's second comes in handy here.

The Attempt at a Solution



[tex] \frac {dp} {dt} = T - Mg[/tex]

dp = p(t+dt) - p(t)
= (M+dM)v + dm(v-u) - MV ,where v - u gives the absolute speed of the grounded part of the chain (= 0)
= dMV

so

[tex]\frac {dM} {dt} v = T - Mg[/tex]

[tex] \frac {dM} {dz} \frac {dz} {dt}v = T - Mg[/tex]
[tex] \frac {dM} {dz} v^{2}=T-Mg[/tex]

separating variables and integrates gives me

[tex]-\frac {1} {g} ln(1 - \frac {Mg} {T}) = \frac {z} {v^2}[/tex]

and here's where i get stuck. I tried doing a log expansion, but that didn't pull out the correct expression. Any help?
 
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  • #2
Dustgil said:

Homework Statement


A uniform chain lies in a heap on a table. If one end is raised vertically with uniform velocity v, show that the upward force that mus be exerted on the end of the chain is equal to the weight of a length z + (v^2/g) of the chain, where z is the length that has been uncoiled at any instant.

Homework Equations


Newton's second comes in handy here.

The Attempt at a Solution



[tex] \frac {dp} {dt} = T - Mg[/tex]

dp = p(t+dt) - p(t)
= (M+dM)v + dm(v-u) - MV ,where v - u gives the absolute speed of the grounded part of the chain (= 0)
= dMV

so

[tex]\frac {dM} {dt} v = T - Mg[/tex]

[tex] \frac {dM} {dz} \frac {dz} {dt}v = T - Mg[/tex]
[tex] \frac {dM} {dz} v^{2}=T-Mg[/tex]
It is correct so far.
Dustgil said:
separating variables and integrates gives me

[tex]-\frac {1} {g} ln(1 - \frac {Mg} {T}) = \frac {z} {v^2}[/tex]

and here's where i get stuck. I tried doing a log expansion, but that didn't pull out the correct expression. Any help?
Note that T is not constant, so you integral is wrong. You have to determine T, and you can get it from the equation in red. If the linear density of the uniform chain is λ, M=λz. What is T in terms of z?
Finding the equivalent length which has the same weight that T, you have to divide T with gλ.
 
  • #3
okay, thanks I've got it now.

[tex]T = Mg + \frac {dM} {dz} v^{2}[/tex]

Since

[tex]M = \lambda z[/tex]
[tex]\frac {dM} {dz} = \lambda[/tex]

So

[tex]T = \lambda z g + \lambda v^{2}[/tex]
[tex]\frac {T} {\lambda g} = z + \frac {v^{2}} {g}[/tex]
 
  • #4
Good work!
 

FAQ: Uniform chain rising with constant velocity

What is a uniform chain rising with constant velocity?

A uniform chain rising with constant velocity is a physical system in which a chain of uniform weight is suspended from one end and is being pulled upwards with a constant velocity. This system is often used as an example to illustrate concepts of classical mechanics, such as tension, force, and acceleration.

How does the velocity of the chain affect the tension?

In a uniform chain rising with constant velocity, the tension in the chain remains constant regardless of the velocity. This is because the chain is in a state of equilibrium, where the upward force of the pulling force is equal to the downward force of the weight of the chain. Therefore, the tension in the chain is solely determined by the weight of the chain and the acceleration due to gravity, and is not affected by the velocity.

What is the relationship between the length of the chain and its velocity?

The length of the chain has no direct relationship with its velocity in a uniform chain rising with constant velocity. However, the length of the chain does affect its acceleration, as a longer chain has a larger weight and therefore a larger downward force, resulting in a larger acceleration. The velocity, on the other hand, is determined solely by the pulling force and the weight of the chain, and remains constant as long as these forces remain constant.

Can the chain continue to rise indefinitely?

In theory, yes, the chain can continue to rise indefinitely as long as the pulling force remains constant. However, in reality, the chain may eventually reach a limit where it can no longer support its own weight and will break or experience other structural failures. This is due to the fact that the weight of the chain increases as it rises, and at a certain point, the tension in the chain may become too great for it to withstand.

What are some practical applications of a uniform chain rising with constant velocity?

One practical application of a uniform chain rising with constant velocity is in elevators. The elevator cab is attached to a chain that is pulled upwards with a constant velocity, ensuring a smooth and steady ride for passengers. This system also helps to reduce wear and tear on the elevator components. Other applications include conveyor belts and ski lifts.

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