Artefact projects · Solid · Artefact

Building an arch from a hanging chain: a maths EPQ idea

Why it works as an EPQ

The artefact is two model arches; the catenary mathematics predicts which is stronger, and tests decide.

Scope and difficulty

Solid. Solid. Small models, safe loads, repeated tests.

The maths

Builds on these A Level topics: Exponentials and logarithms · Forces and Newton's laws · Coordinate geometry.

You would learn:

• The catenary
• Thrust lines in arches
• Experimental design

Learning maths beyond the course is expected in a maths EPQ, but you must understand and explain everything you use.

One possible plan

1. Explain why an inverted hanging chain gives an arch in pure compression.
2. Make templates for both shapes from measured curves.
3. Build and load-test both, with repeats.
4. Evaluate results against the theory.

Pitfalls

• Different materials or thickness in the two arches.
• Unsafe loads.

Where to start reading

• Search for: inverted catenary arch thrust line
• Search for: Hooke hanging chain arch

Prefer books, lecture notes, journal articles and official data to a single website, and record every source as you read (how to reference).

Making something? Read the artefact guide first: an artefact still needs a research-based written report.

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Your EPQ must be your own work. These pages coach: ideas, structure, checklists and planning. Submitting text, proofs, code or analysis written by someone else or by an AI tool as your own is malpractice. How to use help and AI honestly.