Experimental solution of Buquoy’s problem

Abstract

This article addresses the problem in which a chain moves vertically upward from a horizontal plane under constant force – Buquoy’s problem. For the first time, an original technique is proposed for the experimental solution of this problem. The chain’s motion is studied in liquid (water), and the buoyancy force of the float attached to the chain serves as a constant force. The experiment reveals converging oscillation of the system at various displacements of the chain relative to the equilibrium position. The differential equation of chain motion which describes this variable mass system is solved by the numerical technique. A comparison of theoretical and experimental data is made.