Bifurcation theory for a rod with small bending stiffness (Q1917660)

We study the equilibrium states of a conducting rod with small bending stiffness in a magnetic field. The magnetic field is produced by current flowing in a pair infinitely long parallel wires. The line between the supports of the rod is in the plane of the wires and equidistant from them. The rod is clamped at both ends. We consider planar deformations of the rod. We prove a bifurcation theorem describing the set of equilibrium states.