Past exam of the mathematical mechanical biology course of the University of Oxford / 2023 / 1 / a / iv / Solution

Zero applied end force and the force balance ${\mathbf{n}}^{\prime }=0$ imply $\mathbf{n}(S)=0$ everywhere. The moment balance then reduces to ${\mathbf{m}}^{\prime }=0$.

Choose an untwisted straight configuration: all three directors are constant, ${\mathbf{r}}^{\prime }={\mathbf{d}}_3$, and $\mathbf{u}=0$. The constitutive equation giveswhich is constant in space and therefore satisfies the moment balance. The required end bending moment is consequentlyIts sign opposes the positive intrinsic curvature of an elastic filament. If the initial position and frame from part (ii) are retained, this solution is simply $\mathbf{r}(S)=S{\mathbf{e}}_3$ with ${\mathbf{d}}_i={\mathbf{e}}_i$; the clamp supplies the opposite reaction moment at the other end.