Suspended beams and the velocity of falling weights
Two loaded-beam diagrams with a note on the gain and loss of velocity in motion
Two pen diagrams show horizontal beams hung by vertical cords, one carrying a small weight-box marked with a cross and the other bowing under a load near its middle, with numerical fractions set along the bars to divide the load. The note beneath states that a weight moving toward its natural place gains a degree of velocity at every degree of motion, while one moving against its natural place loses a degree, and that in transverse motions the decrease is half that of the upward motion. The page belongs to a run of leaves on the statics of weights hung from cords.
On this page
Velocity gained in natural motion, lost in contrary motion
A weight that moves toward its natural place acquires a degree of velocity at every degree of its motion; a weight moving against its natural place loses a degree of velocity at every degree of motion. In transverse motions the degrees of decrease are half of those belonging to the upward motion.
Fractional division of the beam's load
Along each drawn beam short strokes mark divisions, and numerical fractions are set against the hanging cords to apportion the weight between the supports. The upper beam hangs a boxed weight, the lower beam bows under a load carried near its centre.