The Shape of a Cable Hanging from a Helicopter

😮The shape of a cable hanging from a helicopter depends on the weight and air resistance it experiences.

🚁As a helicopter flies at constant speed, the tension in the cable balances the weight and air resistance.

💪🏼A uniform flexible cable hangs in a straight diagonal line when pulled by a helicopter at constant speed.

🔺With added weight, the cable can form a J shape, while with added air resistance, it can form an inverted J shape.

🪂The shape of the cable can also be influenced by other factors, such as the deployment of a parachute at the end.

What determines the shape of the cable hanging from a helicopter?

—The shape of the cable depends on the weight of the cable, the air resistance it experiences, and the tension in the cable.

Does the speed of the helicopter affect the shape of the cable?

—Yes, the speed of the helicopter can affect the angle and shape of the cable hanging beneath it.

Why does the cable form a diagonal straight line?

—The tension in the cable balances the weight of the cable and the air resistance, resulting in a straight diagonal line.

What happens when weight is added to the cable?

—When weight is added to the cable, the shape of the cable can change, forming a J shape or an inverted J shape.

Can other factors, such as a parachute, affect the shape of the cable?

—Yes, other factors like the deployment of a parachute at the end of the cable can influence its shape.

00:00The video explores the shape of a cable hanging from a helicopter as it flies at constant speed.

03:53The experiment is conducted to observe the cable's shape with different weights and air resistances.

10:02A parachute is added to the cable to further investigate its effects on the cable's shape.

11:34The importance of home security and the sponsor SimpliSafe are mentioned.