catenary

• Nom désignant la courbe théorique formée par un câble ou une chaîne idéalement flexible et inextensible, de densité et de section uniformes, suspendu librement entre deux points fixes ; par extension, un câble ou conducteur électrique aérien supporté selon cette forme.

A noun referring to the theoretical curve formed by a perfectly flexible, inextensible cord of uniform density and cross-section hanging freely from two fixed points.

1. Mathematical curveC2formaltechnical

   The curve that a perfectly flexible, uniform chain or cable assumes when suspended from two fixed points under its own weight.

   Courbe caténaire

   • The suspension bridge's cables form a catenary shape.
   • Engineers use the catenary equation to design overhead power lines.
   • The catenary curve is often confused with a parabola, but they are mathematically distinct.