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Catenary
1. In mathematics, a catenary curve is the curve made by a chain suspended between two points, supporting a constant weight per length. It is the graph of:
- y = cosh x
This is not the same as the curve made by a chain supporting a constant weight per horizontal length, as in a suspension bridge; that is a parabola.
2. A catenary structure consists of an overhead cable or cables used to deliver electricity to a railway locomotive, tram or trolleybus.
See also: Pantograph, Locomotive
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