A flexible chain of weight 10 N hangs between two fixed points A and B which are at the same horizontal level. The inclination of the chain with the horizontal at both the points of support is 45°. Find the tension (in N) of the chain at the mid point.
Physics · Mixed Chapter
JEE Mains

Question

A flexible chain of weight 10 N hangs between two fixed points A and B which are at the same horizontal level. The inclination of the chain with the horizontal at both the points of support is 45°. Find the tension (in N) of the chain at the mid point.

Physics · Mixed Chapter

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

Step 1: The hanging chain is symmetric, so each support provides an upward force W/2=5 N. Step 2: At each end the chain's tangent makes 45° to the horizontal. If support tension is T, T sin45°=5 N; its horizontal component is H=T cos45°=5 N. Step 3: At the lowest midpoint of the chain the tangent is horizontal, so tension there equals the constant horizontal component H. Step 4: Midpoint tension=5 N. Answer: 5.