A chain whip in action: surprising dynamics

Chains, consisting of jointed rigid segments, can exhibit fascinating and unexpected dynamic phenomena; one example is the chain fountain [1]. Whips, formed from continuously deformable soft materials, also show interesting dynamical phenomena, such as supersonic tip velocity [2]. In this talk, we identify the processes responsible for the unusual response of these two mechanical systems, and demonstrate surprising dynamics when these are combined in a chain whip.

1. J.S. Biggins and M. Warner, Understanding the chain fountain, Proc.R. Soc. A, 470, 20130689 (2014)
2. A. Goriely and T. McMIllen, Shape of a cracking whip, Phys. Rev. Lett. 88, 244301 (2002)