catenary
Sign in to savethumb|right|This chain, whose ends hang from two points, forms a catenary. thumb|right|The silk on this spider web forms multiple elastic catenaries.
Article
27 sectionsContents
- History
- Catenary bridges
- Anchoring of marine objects
- Mathematical description
- Equation
- Relation to other curves
- Geometrical properties
- Science
- Analysis
- Model of chains and arches
- Derivation of equations for the curve
- Alternative derivation
- Determining parameters
- Tension relations
- Variational formulation
- Generalizations with vertical force
- Nonuniform chains
- Suspension bridge curve
- Catenary of equal strength
- Elastic catenary
- Other generalizations
- Chain under a general force
- See also
- Notes
- Bibliography
- Further reading
- External links
thumb|right|This chain, whose ends hang from two points, forms a catenary. thumb|right|The silk on this spider web forms multiple elastic catenaries.
In physics and geometry, a catenary ( , ) is the curve that an idealized hanging chain or cable assumes under its own weight when supported only at its ends in a uniform gravitational field.