Physics

Problem

A block of mass

m

is suspended from the ceiling by a uniform chain of length

L

and mass

M

. The system is at rest. Let

T_{\text{top}}

be the tension where the chain attaches to the ceiling,

T_{\text{mid}}

the tension at the midpoint of the chain, and

T_{\text{bot}}

the tension where the chain attaches to the block. Which ranking correctly orders these three magnitudes? a)

T_{\text{bot}} > T_{\text{mid}} > T_{\text{top}}

T_{\text{top}} = T_{\text{mid}} = T_{\text{bot}}

T_{\text{top}} > T_{\text{mid}} > T_{\text{bot}}

T_{\text{top}} > T_{\text{mid}} = T_{\text{bot}}