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ExamsJEE AdvancedPhysics

A heavy chain is fixed at both ends. When you pull the middle of the chain downward so that it forms a triangular shape, does the centre of mass of the chain move upward, downward, or stay at the same position compared to its original hanging configuration?

  1. Centre of mass moves downward
  2. Centre of mass moves upward
  3. Centre of mass remains stationary
  4. Cannot be predicted

Correct answer: Centre of mass moves upward

Solution

In the natural catenary, most of the chain hangs near the bottom. When pulled into a triangle, the two inclined straight segments carry the chain to higher positions on average. Therefore the centre of mass rises.

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