A suspension cable carrying a UDL w per unit horizontal length takes the shape of a:
Choose the correct answer
Circular arc
Parabola — matches BMD of SS beam under same loading; catenary is for self-weight loading
Catenary in all cases
Straight line
Correct Answer
B. Parabola — matches BMD of SS beam under same loading; catenary is for self-weight loading
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Suspension cable under UDL (horizontal projection): takes a parabolic shape y = wx²/(2H), same as a bending moment diagram for a SS beam. Under self-weight (load per unit arc length): cable takes catenary shape y = a·cosh(x/a). Key difference: parabolic (uniform horizontal load = suspension bridges with deck) vs catenary (self-weight = free-hanging chain or transmission line).
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