A flexible chain of mass m hangs between two fixed points at the same level. The inclination of the chain with the horizontal at the two points of support is 30 . Considering the equilibrium of each half of the chain, the tension of the chain at the lowest point is .
- mg
- 32mg
- 12mg
- 3mg
Answer
(2) 32mg
Solution
Consider one half of the chain (mass m2). Forces on it: tension T at the support at 30 to the horizontal, horizontal tension T0 at the lowest point and weight mg2.
Vertical equilibrium: T 30 = mg2 T = mg
Horizontal equilibrium: T0 = T 30
T0 = 32mg
Answer: (2)