1J30.30 - Break a Wire With a Hinge

Set the apparatus up so that it has a small angle.  You should be able to hang several kilograms of mass from the apparatus in this position.
Then adjust the chain so that the apparatus has a larger angle and note that the chain will now break when the same amount of mass is hung from the apparatus.
Code Number:
1J30.30
Demo Title:
Break a Wire With a Hinge
Condition:
Good
Principle:
Vector Addition of Forces
Area of Study:
Mechanics
Equipment:
Hinge on Roller Skates, rope, string, or paperclip chain, mass set.
Procedure:

Set the apparatus up so that it has a small angle.  You should be able to hang several kilograms of mass from the apparatus in this position.  Then adjust the chain so that the apparatus has a larger angle and note that the chain will now break when the same amount of mass is hung from the apparatus.

References:
  • Julius Sumner Miller, "Physics Fun and Demonstrations", Central Scientific Company.
  • D. Colson, C. J. Lapp, J. A. Eldridge, "Experiment IV", 1936 Univ. of Iowa Physics Laboratory Manual, p. 11.


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