32.1. Geometry

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a beam?

   Hint

   Think about horizontal support in buildings.

2. 2.

   What does uniform load mean?

   Hint

   Consider how weight is spread on a shelf.

3. 3.

   What is the main purpose of internal shear forces in a beam?

   • To cause failure
   • To maintain equilibrium
   • To increase load

   Hint

   Think about what keeps a building standing.

4. 4.

   A cantilever column is supported at both ends. True or False?

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Visualize how it is supported.

5. 5.

   A structure has three beams each supported by cantilevers and they are loaded differently. Calculate the resultant load on the central beam if each side carries a different load of 1.2 k/ft and 2 k/ft on the left and right respectively.

   Hint

   Add up the loads acting on the central beam.

6. 6.

   If the maximum moment at a simply supported beam is 1000 k.ft, what would the corresponding shear at the beam ends near support? Consider symmetric loading.

   Hint

   Think about the relationship between load, moment, and shear.