3.6. Problems

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define static determinacy in your own words.

   Hint

   Think about whether more information is needed to solve the problem.

2. 2.

   What is the purpose of a free-body diagram?

   Hint

   Look at how forces interact with the structure.

3. 3.

   What do we mean by the term 'static determinacy'?

   • The ability to analyze a structure without extra data
   • The ability to determine how much load a structure can carry
   • None of the above

   Hint

   Reflect on the conditions needed to solve truss problems.

4. 4.

   True or False: A free-body diagram only needs to show external loads.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about how forces act on joints and members.

5. 5.

   A truss has 8 members and 6 joints with a vertical load at joint A. Analyze the truss and determine the forces in members AB and AC.

   Hint

   Make sure to identify all forces acting at joint A.

6. 6.

   Given a mixed truss with both horizontal and vertical loads, determine if the members are in tension or compression by applying the method of sections.

   Hint

   Remember how tension and compression forces behave in members.