32.4. Forces

Try these first

1. 1.

   What happens to shear force at the midpoint of a simply supported beam?

   Hint

   Consider how forces are distributed in equilibrium.

2. 2.

   Define a simply supported beam.

   Hint

   Think about how it's supported.

3. 3.

   What is the shape of the moment diagram for a simply supported beam under uniform load?

   • Straight line
   • Parabolic
   • Linear

   Hint

   Think about how moments change under static loading.

4. 4.

   True or False: The maximum moment occurs at the supports of a beam.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall where the load's effects are greatest.

5. 5.

   A simply supported beam with a length of 20 ft is subjected to a uniformly distributed load of 3 k/ft. Calculate the maximum moment and shear at midspan.

   Hint

   Use the moment equation and consider the location of maximum values.

6. 6.

   For a beam with a triangular load distribution peaking at 4 k/ft over a length of 10 ft, derive the expressions for the shear and moment.

   Hint

   Consider how load changes shape and the effect on internal forces.