Weight of a Falling Chain

Classical Mechanics Level 3

A 100 m rope of line density \(\lambda=0.1\) kg/m is suspended vertically so that the bottom of the rope is just touching a scale. It is then released and falls onto the scale, which perceives a time dependent weight.

What is the reading on the scale in Newtons at the moment half the rope lies on the scale?

Assumptions and Details

\(g=9.8\) m/s\(^{2}\).

Excel in math and science

Master concepts by solving fun, challenging problems.

It's hard to learn from lectures and videos

Learn more effectively through short, interactive explorations.

Used and loved by over 7 million people

Learn from a vibrant community of students and enthusiasts, including olympiad champions, researchers, and professionals.