Calculate Net Extension of Two Suspended Strings in Series
A string of length and Young's modulus is connected to another string of length and Young's modulus both twice of those of . This series combination of strings is then suspended from a rigid support and its free end is fixed to a load of mass . The net change in length of the combination is ________ . (radius of both the strings is and acceleration due to gravity ) (Mass of both strings is to be neglected as compared to the mass of load)
Options
Topics & Concepts
Step-by-Step Solution
To find the net extension of the combination of the two strings connected in series, we calculate the individual extension of each string under the applied load.
1. Identify the Given Parameters
For String :
- Length,
- Young's modulus,
- Radius,
For String :
- Length,
- Young's modulus,
- Radius,
System Parameters:
- Load mass,
- Acceleration due to gravity,
2. Determine the Tension and Cross-Sectional Area
Since the mass of the strings is neglected and they are connected in series, the tension throughout both strings is equal to the weight of the load:
The cross-sectional area for both strings (having the same radius) is:
3. Calculate the Extension of String
The extension of string is given by Hooke's Law:
Substituting the given values and using (so ):
4. Calculate the Extension of String
The extension of string is:
Given that and :
5. Calculate Net Extension
The net change in length of the combination is the sum of the individual extensions:
Thus, the correct option is B ().