5-1.

Determine the force in each member of the

truss and state if the members are in tension or
compression. Set P1 = 800 kN and P2 = 400 kN.

6m 8m
C

8m

P2 B

P1

Method of Joints : In this case, the support reactions are not

required for determining the member forces.

Joint B :

3
ΣFx = 0; FBC cos 45° – FBA   – 400 = 0 [1]
 5

4
+↑ ΣFy = 0; FBC sin 45° + FBA   – 800 = 0 [2]
 5

Solving Eqs. [1] and [2] yields

FBA = 285.71 kN (T) = 286 kN (T) Ans
FBC = 808.12 kN (T) = 808 kN (T) Ans

Joint C :

ΣFx = 0; FCA – 808.12 cos 45° = 0

FCA = 571 kN (C) Ans
+↑ ΣFy = 0; Cy – 808.12 sin 45° = 0
Cy = 571 kN

Note : The support reactions Ax and Ay can be determined by

analyzing Joint A using the results obtained above.

150
5-2. Determine the force on each member of the
truss and state if the members are in tension or
compression. Set P1 = 500 kN and P2 = 100 kN.

6m 8m
C

8m

P2 B

P1

Method of Joints : In this case, the support reactions are not

required for determining the member forces.

Joint B :

3
ΣFx = 0; FBC cos 45° – FBA   – 100 = 0 [1]
 5

4
+↑ ΣFy = 0; FBC sin 45° + FBA   – 500 = 0 [2]
 5

Solving Eqs. [1] and [2] yields

FBA = 285.71 kN (T) = 286 kN (T) Ans
FBC = 383.86 kN (T) = 384 kN (T) Ans

Joint C :

ΣFx = 0; FCA – 383.86 cos 45° = 0

FCA = 271 kN (C) Ans
+↑ ΣFy = 0; Cy – 383.86 sin 45° = 0
Cy = 271.43 kN

Note : The support reactions Ax and Ay can be determined by

analyzing Joint A using the results obtained above.

151
5-3. The truss, used to support a balcony, is subjected
to the loading shown. Approximate each joint as a
pin and determine the force in each member. State
whether the members are in tension or compression.
Set P1 = 600 kN and P2 = 400 kN.

P1 P2

A B C

45° 45°

4m

D
4m 4m

Joint A :

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FAD sin 45° – 600 = 0

FAD = 848.528 = 849 kN (C) Ans

ΣFx = 0; FAB – 848.528 cos 45° = 0

FAB = 600 kN (T) Ans

Joint B :

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FBD – 400 = 0

FBD = 400 kN (C) Ans

ΣFx = 0; FBC – 600 = 0

FBC = 600 kN (T) Ans

Joint D :

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FDC sin 45° – 400 – 848.528 sin 45° = 0

FDC = 1414.214 kN = 1.41 MN (T) Ans

ΣFx = 0; 848.528 cos 45° + 1414.214 cos 45° – FDE = 0

FDE = 1600 kN = 1.60 MN (C) Ans

152
*5-4. The truss, used to support a balcony, is subjected
to the loading shown. Approximate each joint as a
pin and determine the force in each member. State
whether the members are in tension or compression.
Set P1 = 800 kN and P2 = 0.

P1 P2

A B C

45° 45°

4m

D
4m 4m

Joint A :
+↑ ΣFy = 0; FAD sin 45° – 800 = 0
FAD = 1131.4 kN = 1.13 MN (C) Ans

ΣFx = 0; FAB – 1131.4 cos 45° = 0

FAB = 800 kN (T) Ans

Joint B :
+↑ ΣFy = 0; FBD – 0 = 0
FBD = 0 Ans

ΣFx = 0; FBC – 800 = 0

FBC = 800 kN (T) Ans

Joint D :
+↑ ΣFy = 0; FDC sin 45° – 0 – 1131.4 sin 45° = 0
FDC = 1131.4 kN = 1.13 MN (T) Ans

ΣFx = 0; 1131.4 cos 45° + 1131.4 cos 45° – FDE = 0

FDE = 1600 kN = 1.60 MN (C) Ans

153
5-5. Determine the force in each member of the
truss and state if the members are in tension
or compression. Assume each joint as a pin. Set
P = 4 kN.

P 2P P

A B C

4m
E

D
4m 4m

Method of Joints : In this case, the support reactions are not

required for determining the member forces.

Joint A:

1 
+↑ ΣFy = 0; FAE   –4=0
 5
FAE = 8.944 kN (C) = 8.94 kN (C) Ans

2 
ΣFx = 0; FAB – 8.944   =0
 5
FAB = 8.00 kN (T) Ans

Joint B :

ΣFx = 0; FBC – 8.00 = 0 FBC = 8.00 kN (T) Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FBE – 8 = 0 FBE = 8.00 kN (C) Ans

Joint E :
+ ΣFy′ = 0; FEC cos 36.87° – 8.00 cos 26.57° = 0
FEC = 8.944 kN (T) = 8.94 kN (T) Ans
+ ΣFx′ = 0; 8.944 + 8.00 sin 26.57° + 8.944 sin 36.87° – FED = 0
FED = 17.89 kN (C) = 17.9 kN (C) Ans

Joint D :

1 
+↑ ΣFy = 0; FDC – 17.89   =0 FDC = 8.00 kN (T) Ans
 5

2 
ΣFx = 0; –Dx + 17.89   =0 Dx = 16.0 kN
 5

Note : The support reactions Cx and Cy can be determined by

analyzing Joint C using the results obtained above.

154
5-6. Assume that each member of the truss is made P 2P P
of steel having a mass per length of 4 kg/m. Set
P = 0, determine the force in each member, and indicate A B C
if the members are in tension or comparison. Neglect
the weight of the gusset plates and assume each joint
is a pin. Solve the problem by assuming the weight of
each member can be represented as a vertical force, 4m
E
half of which is applied at the end of each member.

D
Joint Forces : 4m 4m

 20 
FA = 4(9.81)  2 +  = 166.22 N
 2 
FB = 4(9.81)(2 + 2 + 1) = 196.2 N
  20  
FC = 4(9.81) 1 + 3   = 302.47 N
  2  

 20 
FD = 4(9.81)  2 +  = 166.22 N
 2 

Method of Joints : In this case, the support reactions are not

required for determining the member forces.

Joint A:

1 
+↑ ΣFy = 0; FAE   – 166.22 = 0
 5
FAE = 371.69 N (C) = 372 N (C) Ans

2 
ΣFx = 0; FAB – 371.69   =0
 5
FAB = 332.45 N (T) = 332 N (T) Ans

Joint B :

ΣFx = 0; FBC – 332.45 = 0 FBC = 332 N (T) Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FBE – 196.2 = 0
FBE = 196.2 N (C) = 196 N (C) Ans

Joint E :
+ ΣFy′ = 0; FEC cos 36.87° – (196.2 + 302.47) cos 26.57° = 0
FEC = 557.53 N (T) = 558 N (T) Ans
+ ΣFx′ = 0; 371.69 + (196.2 + 302.47) sin 26.57°
+ 557.53 sin 36.87° – FED = 0
FED = 929.22 N (C) = 929 N (C) Ans

Joint D :
1 
+↑ ΣFy = 0; FDC – 929.22   – 166.22 = 0
 5
FDC = 582 N (T) Ans
2 
ΣFx = 0; Dx – 929.22   =0 Dx = 831.12 N
 5

Note : The support reactions Cx and Cy can be determined by

analyzing Joint C using the results obtained above.

155
5-7. Determine the force in each member of the
truss and state if the members are in tension or
compression.

8 kN 10 kN

4 kN
B C D
3 kN

1.5 m

A
F E

2m 2m

Σ MA = 0; –3(1.5) – 4(2) – 10(4) + Ey(4) = 0

Ey = 13.125 kN Ans
+↑ Σ Fy = 0; Ay – 8 – 4 – 10 + 13.125 = 0
Ay = 8.875 kN Ans

Σ Fx = 0; Ax = 3 kN

Joint B :

Σ Fx = 0; FBC = 3 kN (C) Ans

+↑ Σ Fy = 0; FBA = 8 kN (C) Ans

Joint A :

3
+↑ Σ Fy = 0; 8.875 – 8 – FAC = 0
5

FCA = 1.458 = 1.46 kN (C) Ans

4
Σ Fx = 0; FAF – 3 – (1.458) = 0
5

FAF = 4.17 kN (T) Ans

(cont’d )

156
5-7. (cont’d )

Joint C :

4
ΣFx = 0; 3+ (1.458) – FCD = 0
5

FCD = 4.167 = 4.17 kN (C) Ans

3
+↑ ΣFy = 0; FCF – 4 + (1.458) = 0
5

FCF = 3.125 = 3.12 kN (C) Ans

Joint E :

ΣFx = 0; FEF = 0 Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FED = 13.125 = 13.1 kN (C) Ans

Joint D:

3
+↑ ΣFy = 0; 13.125 – 10 – FDF = 0
5

FDF = 5.21 kN (T) Ans

4
ΣFx = 0; 4.167 – (5.21) = 0 Check!
5

157
*5-8. Determine the force in each member of the
truss and state if the members are in tension or
compression. Set P1 = 2 kN and P2 = 1.5 kN.

30° 30°
C
E D
3m 3m

P1 P2

Method of Joints : In this case, the support reactions are not

required for determining the member forces.

Joint C :

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FCB sin 30° – 1.5 = 0

FCB = 3.00 kN (T) Ans

ΣFx = 0; FCD – 3.00 cos 30° = 0

FCD = 2.598 kN (C) = 2.60 kN (C) Ans

Joint D :

ΣFx = 0; FDE – 2.598 = 0 FDE = 2.60 kN (C) Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FDB – 2 = 0 FDB = 2.00 kN (T) Ans

Joint B :

+ ΣFy′ = 0; FBE cos 30° – 2.00 cos 30° = 0

FBE = 2.00 kN (C) Ans

+ ΣFx′ = 0; (2.00 + 2.00) sin 30° + 3.00 – FBA = 0

FBA = 5.00 kN (T) Ans

Note : The support reactions at support A and E can be determined

by analyzing Joints A and E respectively using the
results obtained above.

158
5-9. Determine the force in each member of the
truss and state if the members are in tension or
compression. Set P1 = P2 = 4 kN.

30° 30°
C
E D
3m 3m

P1 P2

Method of Joints : In this case, the support reactions are not

required for determining the member forces.

Joint C :

+↑ Σ Fy = 0; FCB sin 30° – 4 = 0

FCB = 8.00 kN (T) Ans

Σ Fx = 0; FCD – 8.00 cos 30° = 0

FCD = 6.928 kN (C) = 6.93 kN (C) Ans

Joint D :

Σ Fx = 0; FDE – 6.928 = 0 FDE = 6.93 kN (C) Ans

+↑ Σ Fy = 0; FDB – 4 = 0 FDB = 4.00 kN (T) Ans

Joint B:

+ Σ Fy′ = 0; FBE cos 30° – 4.00 cos 30° = 0

FBE = 4.00 kN (C) Ans

+ Σ Fx′ = 0; (4.00 + 4.00) sin 30° + 8.00 – FBA = 0

FBA = 12.0 kN (T) Ans

Note : The support reactions at support A and E can be determined

by analyzing Joints A and E respectively using the
results obtained above.

159
5-10. Determine the force in each member of the G E
truss and state if the members are in tension or
compression. Set P1 = 0, P2 = 100 kN.
1m

A D
B C
1m 1m 1m
Reactions at A and D :
P1
P2
Ax = 0

Ay = 33.33 kN

Dy = 66.67 kN

Joint A :

ΣFx = 0; FAB – FAG cos 45° = 0

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 33.33 – FAG sin 45° = 0

FAG = 47.1 kN (C) Ans

FAB = 33.3 kN (T) Ans

Joint B :

FBG = 0 Ans

FBG = 33.3 kN (T) Ans

Joint D :

ΣFx = 0; –FDC + FDE cos 45° = 0

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 66.67 – FDE sin 45° = 0

FDE = 94.29 kN = 94.3 kN (C) Ans

FDC = 66.67 kN = 66.7 kN (T) Ans

Joint E :

ΣFx = 0; FEG – 94.29 sin 45° = 0

+↑ ΣFy = 0; –FEC + 94.29 cos 45° = 0

FEC = 66.67 kN = 66.7 kN (T) Ans

FEG = 66.67 kN = 66.7 kN (C) Ans

Joint C :

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FCG cos 45° + 66.67 – 100 = 0

FCG = 47.1 kN (T) Ans

160
5-11. Determine the force in each member of the G E
truss and state if the members are in tension or
compression. Set P1 = 50 kN, P2 = 150 kN.
1m

A D
Reactions at A and D :
B C
Ax = 0 1m 1m 1m

Ay = 83.33 kN P1
P2
Dy = 116.67 kN

Joint A :

ΣFx = 0; FAB – FAG cos 45° = 0

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 83.33 – FAG sin 45° = 0

FAG = 117.85 kN = 117.9 kN (C) Ans

FAB = 83.33 kN = 83.3 kN (T) Ans

Joint B :

ΣFx = 0; FBC – 833 = 0

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FBG – 500 = 0

FBC = 83.3 kN (T) Ans

FBG = 50 kN (T) Ans

Joint D :

ΣFx = 0; –FDC + FDC cos 45° = 0

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 116.67 – FDE sin 45° = 0

FDE = 164.996 kN = 165 kN (T) Ans

FDC = 116.67 kN = 116.7 kN (T) Ans

Joint E :

ΣFx = 0; FEG – 164.996 sin 45° = 0

+↑ ΣFy = 0; –FEC + 164.996 cos 45° = 0

FEC = 116.67 kN = 116.7 kN (T) Ans

FEG = 116.67 kN = 116.7 kN (C) Ans

Joint C :

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FCG cos 45° + 116.67 – 150 = 0

FCG = 47.09 kN = 47.1 kN (T) Ans

161
*5-12. Determine the force in each member of the
truss and state if the members are in tension or
compression. Set P1 = 10 kN, P2 = 15 kN.

G B C

4m

A F E D

2m 4m 2m
P1 P2

ΣMA = 0; Gx(4) – 10(2) – 15(6) = 0

Gx = 27.5 kN

ΣFx = 0; Ax – 27.5 = 0

Ax = 27.5 kN

+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ay – 10 – 15 = 0

Ay = 25 kN

Joint G :

ΣFx = 0; FGB – 27.5 = 0

FGB = 27.5 kN (T) Ans

Joint A :

1
ΣFx = 0; 27.5 – FAF – (FAB) = 0
5

2 
+↑ ΣFy = 0; 25 – FAB   =0
 5

FAF = 15.0 kN (C) Ans

FAB = 27.95 = 28.0 kN (C) Ans

Joint B :

1 
ΣFx = 0; 27.95   + FBC – 27.5 = 0
 5

2 
+↑ ΣFy = 0; 27.95   – FBF = 0
 5

FBF = 24.99 = 25.0 kN (T) Ans

FBC = 15.0 kN (T) Ans

(cont’d)

162
5-12. (cont’d )

Joint F :

1
ΣFx = 0; 15 + FAE – (FFC) = 0
2

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 25 – 10 – FFC  1  = 0
 2

FFC = 21.21 = 21.2 kN (C) Ans

FFE = 0 Ans

Joint E :

ΣFx = 0; FED = 0 Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FEC – 15 = 0

FEC –15 = 0

FEC = 15.0 kN (T) Ans

Joint D :

ΣFx = 0; FDC = 0 Ans

163
5-13. Determine the force in each member of the
truss and state if the members are in tension or
compression. Set P1 = 0, P2 = 20 kN.

G B C

4m

A F E D

2m 4m 2m
P1 P2

ΣMA = 0; FGB(4) – 20(6) = 0

FGB = 30 kN (T) Ans

ΣFx = 0; Ax – 30 = 0

Ax = 30 kN

+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ay – 20 = 0

Ay = 20 kN

Joint A :

1
ΣFx = 0; 30 – FAF – (FAB) = 0
5

2 
+↑ ΣFy = 0; 20 – FAB –   =0
 5

FAF = 20 kN (C) Ans

FAB = 22.36 = 22.4 kN (C) Ans

(cont’d )

164
5-13. (cont’d )

Joint B :

 1 
ΣFx = 0; 22.36   + FBC – 30 = 0
 5

 2 
+↑ ΣFy = 0; 22.36   – FBF = 0
 5

FBF = 20 kN (T) Ans

FBC = 20 kN (T) Ans

Joint F :

1
ΣFx = 0; 20 + FBF – (FFC) = 0 Ans
2

1 
+↑ ΣFy = 0; 20 – FFC   =0
 2

FFC = 28.28 = 28.3 kN (C) Ans

FFE = 0 Ans

Joint E :

ΣFx = 0; FED – 0 = 0

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FEC – 20 = 0

FED = 0 Ans

FEC = 20.0 kN (T) Ans

Joint D :

1
ΣFx = 0; (FDC) – 0 = 0
5

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FDC = 0 Ans

165
5-14. Determine the force in each member of the
truss and state if the members are in tension or
compression. Set P1 = 10 kN, P2 = 20 kN, P3 = 30 kN.

B C
P1

1m

A D
F E
30°
1m 1m 1m

P2 P3

ΣMA = 0; 20(1) + 30(2) – RD cos 30° (3) = 0

RD = 30.79 kN

+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ay – 10 – 20 – 30 + 30.79 cos 30° = 0

Ay = 33.34 kN

ΣFx = 0; Ax – 30.79 sin 30° = 0

Ax = 15.4 kN

Joint A :

1
+↑ ΣFy = 0; 33.34 – 10 – FAB = 0
2

FAB = 33 kN (C) Ans

1
ΣFx = 0; 15.4 + FAF – (33) = 0
2

FAF = 7.93 kN (T) Ans

(cont’d )

166
5-14. (cont’d )

Joint B :

1
+↑ ΣFy = 0; (33) – FBF = 0
2

FBF = 23.33 kN = 23.3 kN (T) Ans

1
ΣFx = 0; (33) – FBF = 0
2

FBC = 23.33 kN = 23.3 kN (C) Ans

Joint F :

1
+↑ ΣFy = 0; – FFC – 20 + 23.33 = 0
2

FFC = 4.714 kN = 4.71 kN (C) Ans

1
ΣFx = 0; FFE – 7.93 – (4.714) = 0
2

FFE = 11.26 kN = 11.3 kN (T) Ans

Joint E :

ΣFx = 0; FEC = 30 kN (T) Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FED = 11.26 kN = 11.3 kN (T) Ans

Joint C :

1 1
ΣFx = 0; (4.714) + 23.33 – FCD = 0
2 2

FCD = 37.71 kN = 37.7 kN (C) Ans

1 1
+↑ ΣFy = 0; (4.714) – 30 + (37.71) = 0 Check!
2 2

167
5-15. Determine the force in each member of the
truss and state if the members are in tension or
compression. Set P1 = 40 kN, P2 = 40 kN, P3 = 0.

B C
P1

1m

A D
F E
30°
1m 1m 1m

P2 P3

Σ MA = 0; – 40(1) + RD cos 30° (3) = 0

RD = 15.396 kN

+↑ Σ Fy = 0; Ay – 40 – 40 + 15.396 cos 30° = 0

Ay = 66.67 kN

Σ Fx = 0; Ax – 15.396 sin 30° = 0

Ax = 7.698 kN

Joint A :

1
+↑ Σ Fy = 0; 66.67 – 40 – FAB = 0
2

FAB = 37.71 kN = 37.7 kN (C) Ans

1
Σ Fx = 0; 7.698 + FAF – (37.71) = 0
2

FAF = 18.968 kN = 19.0 kN (T) Ans

Joint B :

1
+↑ Σ Fy = 0; (37.71) – FBF = 0
2

FBF = 26.67 kN = 26.7 kN (T) Ans

1
Σ Fx = 0; (37.71) – FBC = 0
2

FBC = 26.67 kN = 26.7 kN (C) Ans

(cont’d )

168
5-15. (cont’d )

Joint F :

1
+↑ Σ Fy = 0; FFC – 40 + 26.67 = 0
2

FFC = 18.856 kN = 18.9 kN (T) Ans

1
Σ Fx = 0; FFE – 19 + (18.856) = 0
2

FFE = 5.668 kN = 5.67 kN (T) Ans

Joint E :

Σ Fx = 0; FED = 5.67 kN (T) Ans

+↑ Σ Fy = 0; FEC = 0 Ans

Joint C :

1 1
Σ Fx = 0; – (18.856) + 26.67 – FCD = 0
2 2

+↑ Σ Fy = 0; FCD = 18.86 kN = 18.9 kN (C) Ans

169
*5-16. Determine the force in members BC, HC, H G F
and HG of the bridge truss, and indicate whether
the members are in tension or compression.
3m

E
A B C D
3m 3m 3m 3m

12 kN
14 kN

18 kN

Support Reactions :

ΣME = 0; 18(3) + 14(6) + 12(9) – Ay(12) = 0 Ay = 20.5 kN

Method of Sections :

ΣMC = 0; FHG(3) + 12(3) – 20.5(6) = 0

FHG = 29.0 kN (C) Ans

ΣMH = 0; FBC(3) – 20.5(3) = 0

FBC = 20.5 kN (T) Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 20.5 – 12 – FHC sin 45° = 0

FHC = 12.0 kN (T) Ans

5-17. Determine the force in members GF, CF, H G F

and CD of the bridge truss, and indicate whether
the members are in tension or compression. 3m

E
A B C D
3m 3m 3m 3m

12 kN
14 kN

Support Reactions : 18 kN

ΣMA = 0; Ey(12) – 18(9) – 14(6) – 12(3) = 0 Ey = 23.5 kN

ΣFx = 0; Ex = 0

Method of Sections :

ΣMC = 0; 23.5(6) – 18(3) – FGF(3) = 0

FGF = 29.0 kN (C) Ans

ΣMF = 0; 23.5(3) – FCD(3) = 0

FCD = 23.5 kN (T) Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 23.5 – 18 – FCF sin 45° = 0

FCF = 7.78 kN (T) Ans

170
5-18. Determine the force in members DE, DF, B C D E
and GF of the cantilevered truss, and state if the
members are in tension or compression. 3m

A
I H G F
4m 4m 4m 4m

1500 kN
4 5
3

3 4
+↑ ΣFy = 0; FDF – (1500) = 0
5 5

FDF = 2000 kN (C) Ans

4 3
ΣMD = 0; (1500)(12) + (1500)(3) – FGF(3) = 0
5 5

FGF = 5700 kN (C) Ans

4
ΣMF = 0; (1500)(16) – FDE(3) = 0
5

FDE = 6400 kN (T) Ans

5-19. The roof truss supports the vertical loading 8 kN

shown. Determine the force in members BC, CK,
and KJ and state if these members are in tension 4 kN
D
or compression. C
E
B F 3m
A G
L K J I H
12 m, 6 @ 2 m

ΣFx = 0; Ax = 0

ΣMG = 0; –Ay(12) + 4(8) + 8(6) = 0

Ay = 6.667 kN

ΣMC = 0; –6.667(4) + FKJ(2) = 0

FKJ = 13.3 kN (T) Ans

2
ΣMK = 0; 6.667(4) – FBC(2) = 0
5

FBC = 14.907 = 14.9 kN (C) Ans

ΣMA = 0; FCK = 0 Ans

171
*5-20. Determine the force in members CD, CJ,
KJ, and DJ of the truss which serves to support the
deck of a bridge. State if these members are in tension
or compression.

80 kN
40 kN 50 kN

B C D E F
A G

4m

L K J I H
3m 3m 3m 3m 3m 3m

ΣMC = 0; –95(8) + 40(3) + FKJ(4) = 0

FKJ = 112.5 kN (T) Ans

ΣMJ = 0; –95(9) + 40(6) + 80(3) + FCD(4) = 0

FCD = 93.75 kN (C) Ans

3
ΣFx = 0; –93.75 + 112.50 – FCJ = 0
5

FCJ = 31.25 kN (C) Ans

Joint D :

FDJ = 0 Ans

5-21. Determine the force in members EI and JI

of the truss which serves to support the deck of a
bridge. State if these members are in tension
or compression.

80 kN
40 kN 50 kN

B C D E F
A G

4m

L K J I H
3m 3m 3m 3m 3m 3m

ΣME = 0; –50(3) + 75(6) – FJI(4) = 0

FKJ = 75 kN (T) Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 75 – 50 – FEI = 0

FEI = 25 kN (C) Ans

172
5-22. Determine the force in members BC, CG, 3m 3m
and GF of the Warren truss. Indicate if the members B C D
are in tension or compression.
3m 3m

A E
G F
3m 3m 3m

6 kN
8 kN

Support Reactions :

ΣME = 0; 6(6) + 8(3) – Ay(9) = 0 Ay = 6.667 kN

ΣFx = 0; Ax = 0

Method of Sections :

ΣMC = 0; FGF(3 sin 60°) + 6(1.5) – 6.667(4.5) = 0

FGF = 8.08 kN (T) Ans

ΣMG = 0; FBC(3 sin 60°) – 6.667(3) = 0

FBC = 7.70 kN (C) Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 6.667 – 6 – FCG sin 60° = 0

FCG = 0.770 kN (C) Ans

5-23. Determine the force in members CD, CF, 3m 3m

and FG of the Warren truss. Indicate if the members B C D
are in tension or compression.

3m 3m

A E
G F
3m 3m 3m

6 kN
8 kN
Support Reactions :

ΣMA = 0; Ey(9) – 8(6) – 6(3) = 0 Ey = 7.333 kN

Method of Sections :

ΣMC = 0; 7.33(4.5) – 8(1.5) – FFG(3 sin 60°) = 0

FFG = 8.08 kN (T) Ans

ΣMF = 0; 7.333(3) – FCD(3 sin 60°) = 0

FCD = 8.47 kN (C) Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FCF sin 60° + 7.333 – 8 = 0

FCF = 0.770 kN (T) Ans

173
*5-24. Determine the force developed in members 2.5 m 1m 1m 2.5 m
GB and GF of the bridge truss and state if these G F E
members are in tension or compression.

2.5 m

A D
B C

60 kN
80 kN

ΣMA = 0; –60(2.5) – 80(4.5) + Dy(7) = 0

Dy = 72.857 kN

ΣFx = 0; Ax = 0

+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ay – 60 – 80 + 72.857 = 0

Ay = 67.143 kN

ΣMB = 0; –67.143(2.5)+ FGF(2.5) = 0

FGF = 67.143 kN = 67.1 kN (C) Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 67.143 – FGB = 0

FGB = 67.1 kN (T) Ans

5-25. The truss supports the vertical load of I H G E

600 N. Determine the force in members BC, BG, and
HG as the dimension L varies. Plot the results of F
(ordinate with tension as positive) versus L (abscissa) 3m
for 0 ≤ L ≤ 3 m.

A B C D
L L L

600 N

+↑ ΣFy = 0; –600 – FBG sin θ = 0

600
FBG = –
sin θ

3
sin θ =
2
L + 9

FBG = –200 L2 + 9 Ans

ΣMG = 0; –FBC(3) – 600(L) = 0

FBC = –200L Ans
ΣMB = 0; –FHG(3) – 600(2L) = 0
FHG = 400L Ans

174
5-26. Determine the force in members IC and CG B C D
of the truss and state if these members are in
tension or compression. Also, indicate all zero-force 2m
members.
I J

2m

A E
H G F
1.5 m 1.5 m 1.5 m 1.5 m

By inspection of joints B, D, H and I, 6 kN 6 kN

AB, BC, CD, DE, HI, and GI are all zero-force members. Ans

3
ΣMG = 0; – 4.5(3) + FIC   (4) = 0
 5

FIC = 5.62 kN (C) Ans

Joint C :

ΣFx = 0; FCJ = 5.625 kN

4 4
+↑ ΣFy = 0; (5.625) + (5.625) – FCG = 0
5 5

FCG = 9.00 kN (T) Ans

5-27. Determine the force in members JE and GF B C D

of the truss and state if these members are in
tension or compression. Also, indicate all zero-force 2m
members.
I J

2m

A E
By inspection of joints B, D, H and I, H G F
1.5 m 1.5 m 1.5 m 1.5 m
AB, BC, CD, DE, HI, and GI are all zero-force members. Ans
6 kN 6 kN
Joint E :

4
+↑ Σ Fy = 0; 7.5 – FJE = 0
5

FJE = 9.375 = 9.38 kN (C) Ans

3
Σ Fx = 0; (9.375) – FGF = 0
5

FGF = 5.625 kN (T) Ans

175
*5-28. Determine the force in members BC, HC,
and HG. After the truss is sectioned use a single
equation of equilibrium for the calculation of each
force. State if these members are in tension or
compression.

5 kN
4 kN 4 kN
3 kN
2 kN

A B C D E

3m

H F 2m
G
5m 5m 5m 5m

ΣME = 0; –Ay(20) + 2(20) + 4(15) + 4(10) + 5(5) = 0

Ay = 8.25 kN

ΣMH = 0; –8.25(5) + 2(5) + FBC(3) = 0

FBC = 10.4 kN (C) Ans

5
ΣMC = 0; –8.25(10) + 2(10) + 4(5) + FHG(5) = 0
29

FHG = 9.155 = 9.16 kN (T) Ans

3
+↑ ΣMO′ = 0; –2(2.5) + 8.25(2.5) – 4(7.5) + FHC(12.5) = 0
34

FHC = 2.24 kN (T) Ans

176
5-29 Determine the force in members CD, CF, and
CG and state if the members are in tension or
compression.

5 kN
4 kN 4 kN
3 kN
2 kN

A B C D E

3m

H F 2m
G
5m 5m 5m 5m

ΣFx = 0; Ex = 0

ΣMA = 0; – 4(5) – 4(10) – 5(15) – 3(20) + Ey(20) = 0

Ey = 9.75 kN

5
ΣMC = 0; –5(5) – 3(10) + 9.75(10) – FFG(5) = 0
29

FFG = 9.155 kN (T)

ΣMF = 0; –3(5) + 9.75(5) – FCD(3) = 0

FCD = 11.25 = 11.2 kN (C) Ans

3
ΣMO′ = 0; –9.75(2.5) + 5(7.5) + 3(2.5) – FCF(12.5) = 0
34

FCF = 3.21 kN (T) Ans

Joint G :

ΣFx = 0; FGH = 9.155 kN (T) Ans

2
+↑ ΣFy = 0; (9.155)(2) – FCG = 0
29

FCG = 6.80 kN (C) Ans

177
5-30. Determine the force in members GF, FB,
and BC of the Fink truss and state if the members
are in tension or compression.

60 kN

80 kN F 80 kN

G E

30° 60° 60° 30°

A D
B C
3m 3m 3m

Support Reactions : Due to symmetry, Dy = Ay.

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 2Ay – 80 – 60 – 80 = 0 Ay = 110 kN

ΣFx = 0; Ax = 0

Method of Sections :

Σ MB = 0; FGF sin 30°(3) + 80(3 – 3 cos2 30°) – 110(3) = 0

FGF = 180 kN (C) Ans

Σ MA = 0; FFB sin 60°(3) – 80(3 cos2 30°) = 0

FFB = 69.28 kN (T) Ans

Σ MF = 0; FBC(4.5 tan 30°) + 80(4.5 – 3 cos2 30°) – 110(4.5) = 0

FBC = 121.24 kN (T) Ans

5-31. Determine the force in member GJ of the

truss and state if this member is in tension or
compression.

10 kN

10 kN G

10 kN H
J

30°
A E
B C D
3m 3m 3m 3m

10 kN

ΣMC = 0; –10(3) + 15(6) – FGJ cos 30°(6 tan 30°) = 0

FGJ = 20 kN (C) Ans

178
*5-32. Determine the force in member GC of the 10 kN
truss and state if this member is in tension or
compression. 10 kN G

10 kN H
J

30°
A E
B C D
3m 3m 3m 3m

10 kN

Using the results of Prob. 6-45 :

Joint G :

ΣFx = 0; FHG = 20 kN

+↑ ΣFy = 0; –10 + 2(20 cos 60°) – FGC = 0

FGC = 10 kN (T) Ans

5-33. Determine the force in members GF, CF, and

CD of the roof truss and indicate if the members are
in tension or compression.

1.5 kN

C
2 kN 1.70 m

0.8 m D 1.5 m
B

A E
H G F
1m
2m 2m

ΣMA = 0; Ey(4) – 2(0.8) – 1.5(2.50) = 0 Ey = 1.3375 kN

Method of Sections :

ΣMC = 0; 1.3375(2) – FGF(1.5) = 0

FGF = 1.78 kN (T) Ans

 3
ΣMF = 0; 1.3375(1) – FCD  (1) = 0
5
FCD = 2.23 kN (C) Ans

 1.5 
ΣME = 0; FCF   (1) = 0 FCF = 0 Ans
 3.25 

179
5-34. In each case, determine the force P
required to maintain equilibrium. The block weighs
100 N (≈ 10 kg).

(a) (b) (c)

Equations of Equilibrium :

a) +↑ ΣFy = 0; 4P – 100 = 0
P = 25.0 N Ans

b) +↑ ΣFy = 0; 3P – 100 = 0
P = 33.3 N Ans

c) +↑ ΣFy = 0; 3P′ – 100 = 0

P′ = 33.33 N

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 3P – 33.33 = 0
P = 11.1 N Ans

180
5-35. The eye hook has a positive locking latch 800 N
when it supports the load because its two pairs are
pin-connected at A and they bear against one another
along the smooth surface at B. Determine the
resultant force at the pin and the normal force at B
when the eye hook supports a load of 800 N. 6 mm
50 mm
A
75 mm

B 30°

ΣMA = 0; –FB cos 60° (75) – FB sin 60° (50) + 800(6) = 0

800 N
FB = 59.41 = 59.4 N Ans
+↑ ΣFy = 0; –800 – 59.4 sin 60° + Ay = 0
Ay = 851.44 = 851 N

ΣFx = 0; Ax – FB cos 60° = 0

Ax = 29.7 N

FA = (851.44)2 + (29.7)2

= 851.96 N
= 852 N Ans

*5-36. Determine the force P needed to support

the 100 N (≈ 10 kg) weight. Each pulley has a weight A C
of 10 N (≈ 1 kg). Also, what are the cord reactions 50 mm
at A and B?

50 mm

50 mm
Equations of Equilibrium :From FBD (a),
P
+↑ ΣFy = 0; P′ – 2P – 10 = 0 [1]

From FBD (b),

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 2P + P′ – 100 – 10 = 0 [2]

Solving Eqs. [1] and [2] yields,

P = 25.0 N Ans
P′ = 60.0 N

The cord reactions at A and B are

FA = P = 25.0 N FB = P′ = 60.0 N Ans

181
5-37. The link is used to hold the rod in place.
Determine the required axial force on the screw at E
if the largest force to be exerted on the rod at B, C or
D is to be 100 N. Also, find the magnitude of the
force reaction at pin A. Assume all surfaces of
contact are smooth.

100 mm
E

C
80 mm

D
45°
B
50 mm

1
ΣFy = 0; RC = RB
2

1
ΣFx = 0; RD = RB
2

Assume RB = 100 N

100
RC = RD = = 70.71 N < 100 N (O.K!)
2

ΣMA = 0; –100 sin 45° (50 sin 45°) – 100 cos 45° (180 + 50 cos 45°) + RE(100) = 0

RE = 177.28 = 177 N Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; –100 sin 45° + Ay = 0

Ay = 70.71 N

ΣFx = 0; 177.28 – 100 cos 45° – Ax = 0

Ax = 106.57 N

RA = 106.572 + 70.712 = 128 N Ans

182
5-38. The principles of a differential chain block
are indicated schematically in the figure. Determine
the magnitude of force P needed to support the 800-
N force. Also, find the distance x where the cable
must be attached to bar AB so the bar remains horizontal. x
All pulleys have radius of 60 mm.
B
A

800 N 180 mm 240 mm

P

Equations of Equilibrium : From FBD(a),

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 4P′ – 800 = 0 P′ = 200 N

From FBD(b),

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 200 – 5P = 0 P = 40.0 N Ans

ΣMA = 0; 200(x) – 40.0(120) – 40.0(240)

– 40.0(360) – 40.0(480) = 0

x = 240 mm Ans

5-39. Determine the force P needed to support A B C

the 20-kg mass using the Spanish Burton rig. H G F
Also, what are the reactions at the supporting hooks
A, B, and C?

P
E

For pulley D :

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 9P – 20(9.81) = 0

P = 21.8 N Ans

At A, RA = 2P = 43.6 N Ans

At B, RB = 2P = 43.6 N Ans

At C, RC = 6P = 131 N Ans

183
*5-40. The compound beam is fixed at A and supported
by a rocker at B and C. There are hinges (pins) at D
and E. Determine the reactions at the supports.

15 kN

A D B E
C

6m 6m
2m 2m 2m

Equations of Equilibrium : From FBD(a),

ΣME = 0; Cy(6) = 0 Cy = 0 Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ey – 0 = 0 Ey = 0

ΣFx = 0; Ex = 0

From FBD(b),

ΣMD = 0; By(4) – 15(2) = 0

By = 7.50 kN Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; Dy + 7.50 – 15 = 0
Dy = 7.50 kN

ΣFx = 0; Dx = 0

From FBD(c),

ΣMA = 0; MA – 5.00(6) = 0
MA = 30.0 kN · m Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ay – 5.00 = 0 Ay = 5.00 kN Ans

ΣFx = 0; Ax = 0 Ans

184
5-41. The compound beam is pin-supported at C
and supported by a roller at A and B. There is a hinge
(pin) at D. Determine the reactions at the supports.
Neglect the thickness of the beam.

8 kN 12 kN
5 4
15 kN · m 3
A D B C

30°
6m 8m 8m 8m
4 kN 4m2m

Equations of Equilibrium : From FBD(a),

ΣMD = 0; 4 cos 30° (12) + 8(2) – Ay(6) = 0

Ay = 9.5949 kN = 9.59 kN Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; Dy + 9.595 – 4 cos 30° – 8 = 0

Dy = 1.869 kN

ΣFx = 0; Dx – 4 sin 30° = 0 Dx = 2.00 kN

From FBD(b),

 4
ΣMC = 0; 1.869(24) + 15 + 12 (8) – By(16) = 0
 5
By = 8.541 kN = 8.54 kN Ans

 4
+↑ ΣFy = 0; Cy + 8.541 – 1.869 – 12 =0
 5
Cy = 2.93 kN Ans

 3
ΣFx = 0; Cx – 2.00 – 12 =0
 5
Cx = 9.20 kN Ans

185
5-42. Determine the greatest force P that can be
applied to the frame if the largest force resultant
acting at A can have a magnitude of 2 kN.

0.1 m

0.5 m

A
0.75 m 0.75 m
P

ΣMA = 0; T(0.6) – P(1.5) = 0

ΣFx = 0; Ax – T = 0

+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ay – P = 0

Thus, Ax = 2.5P, Ay = P

Require,

2= (2.5 P)2 + ( P)2

P = 0.743 kN = 743 N Ans

186
5-43. Determine the horizontal and vertical
components of forces at pins A and C of the two-
member frame.

200 N/ m

B
A

3m

3m

Free Body Diagram : The solution for this problem will be

simplified if one realizes that member BC is a two force member.

Equations of Equilibrium :

ΣMA = 0; FBC cos 45° (3) – 600(1.5) = 0

FBC = 424.26 N

+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ay + 424.26 cos 45° – 600 = 0

Ay = 300 N Ans

ΣFx = 0; 424.26 sin 45° – Ax = 0

Ax = 300 N Ans

For pin C,

Cx = FBC sin 45° = 424.26 sin 45° = 300 N Ans

Cy = FBC cos 45° = 424.26 cos 45° = 300 N Ans

187
5-44. The three-hinged arch supports the loads
F1 = 8 kN and F2 = 5 kN. Determine the horizontal
and vertical components of reaction at the pin
supports A and B. Take h = 2 m.

F2
C

3m

F1

4m

A
h
B

8m 4m 2m

Member AC :

ΣMA = 0; –8(4) + Cy(8) + Cx(7) = 0

8Cy + 7Cx – 32 = 0

ΣFx = 0; 8 – Ax – Cx = 0

+↑ ΣFy = 0; –Ay + Cy = 0

Ay = C y

Member BC :

ΣMB = 0; 5(2) + Cy(6) – Cx(9) = 0

6Cy – 9Cx + 10 = 0

ΣFx = 0; C x – Bx = 0

Bx = Cx

+↑ ΣFy = 0; –Cy + By – 5 = 0

Solving :

Ax = 5.6141 = 5.61 kN Ans

Ay = 1.9122 = 1.91 kN Ans

Cx = 2.3859 = 2.39 kN Ans

Cy = 1.9122 = 1.91 kN Ans

Bx = 2.3859 = 2.39 kN Ans

By = 6.9122 = 6.91 kN Ans

188
5-45. Determine the horizontal and vertical 2 kN 2 kN 2 kN 2 kN
components of force at pins A, B, and C, and the

0.5 m

0.5 m

0.5 m

0.5 m
reactions to the fixed support D of the three-member B
frame.
A

2m

2m

Free Body Diagram : The solution for this problem will be simplified
if one realizes that member AC is a two force member. D

Equations of Equilibrium : For FBD(a),

 4
ΣMB = 0; 2(0.5) + 2(1) + 2(1.5) + 2(2) – FAC (1.5) = 0
 5
FAC = 8.333 kN

 4
+↑ ΣFy = 0; By + 8.333 –2–2–2–2=0
 5
By = 1.333 kN = 1.33 kN Ans

 3
ΣFx = 0; Bx – 8.333 =0
 5
Bx = 5.00 kN Ans

For pin A and C,

 3  3
Ax = Cx = FAC = 8.333 = 5.00 kN Ans
 5  5

 4  4
Ay = Cy = FAC = 8.333 = 6.67 kN Ans
 5  5

From FBD(b),

 3
ΣMD = 0; 5.00(4) – 8.333 (2) – MD = 0
 5
MD = 10.0 kN · m Ans

 4
+↑ ΣFy = 0; Dy – 1.333 – 8.333 =0
 5
Dy = 8.00 kN Ans

 3
ΣFx = 0; 8.333 – 5.00 – Dx = 0
 5
Dx = 0 Ans

189
5-46. Determine the horizontal and vertical
components of force at C which member ABC exerts
on member CEF.

4m

B E
1m

D
4m

A
F

6m 3m 30 kN

Member BED :

ΣMB = 0; –30(6) + Ey(3) = 0

Ey = 60 kN

+↑ ΣFy = 0; –By + 60 – 30 = 0

By = 30 kN

ΣFx = 0; Bx + Ex – 30 kN = 0 [1]

Member FEC :

ΣMC = 0; 30(3) – Ex(4) = 0

Ex = 22.5 kN

From Eq. [1] Bx = 7.5 kN

ΣFx = 0; –Cx + 30 – 22.5 = 0

Cx = 7.5 kN Ans

Member ABC :

ΣMA = 0; –7.5(8) – Cy(6) + 7.5(4) + 30(3) = 0

Cy = 10 kN Ans

190
5-47. Determine the horizontal and vertical
components of force that the pins at A, B, and C
exert on their connecting members.

A 0.2 m

50 mm

B C

1m

800 N

ΣMB = 0; –800(1 + 0.05) + Ax(0.2) = 0

Ax = 4200 N = 4.20 kN Ans

ΣFx = 0; Bx = 4200 N = 4.20 kN Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ay – By – 800 = 0 [1]

Member AC :

ΣMC = 0; –800(50) – Ay(200) + 4200(200) = 0

Ay = 4000 N = 4.00 kN Ans

From Eq. [1] By = 3.20 kN Ans

ΣFx = 0; – 4200 + 800 + Cx = 0

Cx = 3.40 kN Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 4000 – Cy = 0

Cy = 4.00 kN Ans

191
5-48. The hoist supports the 125-kg engine. Determine
the force the load creates in member DB and in member
FB, which contains the hydraulic cylinder H.

1m 2m
F E
G

2m

H
D

1m
C
A B

2m 1m

Free Body Diagram : The solution for this problem will be simplified
if one realizes that members FB and DB are two force members.

Equations of Equilibrium : For FBD(a),

3 
ΣME = 0; 1226.25(3) – FFB   (2) = 0
 10 

FFB = 1938.87 N = 1.94 kN Ans

3 
+↑ ΣFy = 0; 1938.87   – 1226.25 – Ey = 0
 10 

Ey = 613.125 N

1 
ΣFx = 0; Ex – 1938.87   =0
 10 

Ex = 613.125 N

From FBD(b),

ΣMC = 0; 613.125(3) – FBD sin 45° (1) = 0

FBD = 2601.27 = 2.60 kN Ans

192
5-49. Determine the force P on the cord, and the
angle θ that the pulley-supporting link AB makes with
the vertical. Neglect the mass of the pulleys and the
link. The block has a weight of 200 N (≈ 20 kg) and
the cord is attached to the pin at B. The pulleys have
radii of r1 = 2 cm and r2 = 1 cm.

θ
r1 45°
B

r2

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 2T – 200 = 0

T = 100 N Ans

ΣFx = 0; 100 cos 45° – FAB sin θ = 0

+↑ ΣFy = 0; FAB cos θ – 100 – 100 – 100 sin 45° = 0

θ = 14.6° Ans

FAB = 280 N

5-50. The front of the car is to be lifted using a 500 N

smooth, rigid 3.5 m long board. The car has a weight
of 17.5 kN and a center of gravity at G. Determine
the position x of the fulcrum so that an applied force D G
E
of 500 N at E will lift the front wheels of the car. C B A
x
3.5 m 1.5 m
0.5 m 1.2 m

Free Body Diagram : When the front wheels are lifted, the normal
reaction NB = 0.

Equations of Equilibrium : From FBD(a),

ΣMA = 0; 17.5(1.5) – FC(3.2) = 0 FC = 8.203 kN

From FBD(b),

ΣMD = 0; 500(x) – 8203(3.5 – x) = 0

x = 3.30 m Ans

193
5-51. The wall crane supports a load of 700 N.
Determine the horizontal and vertical components of
reaction at the pins A and D. Also, what is the force
of the cable at the winch W ?

1m
1m 1m
C

A B

E
60°

700 N

Pulley E :

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 2T – 700 = 0

T = 350 N Ans

Member ABC :

ΣMA = 0; TBD sin 45°(1) – 350° sin 60°(1) – 700(2) = 0

TBD = 2409 N

+↑ ΣFy = 0; –Ay + 2409 sin 45° – 350 sin 60° – 700 = 0

Ay = 700 N Ans

ΣFx = 0; Ax – 2409 cos 45° – 350 cos 60° + 350 – 350 = 0

Ax = 1.88 kN Ans

At D :

Dx = 2409 cos 45° = 1703.1 N = 1.70 kN Ans

Dy = 2409 sin 45° = 1.70 kN Ans

194
*5-52. Determine the force that the smooth roller C
exerts on beam AB. Also, what are the horizontal and
vertical components of reaction at pin A? Neglect the
weight of the frame and roller.

60 N · m D
C
A 0.2 m

1m 1.2 m

ΣMA = 0; –60 + Dx(0.2) = 0

Dx = 300 N

ΣFx = 0; Ax = 300 N Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ay = 0 Ans

ΣMB = 0; –NC(1.2) + 300(0.2) = 0

NC = 50 N Ans

5-53. Determine the horizontal and vertical components

D
of force which the pins exert on member ABC.
0.2 m 1m

A
B C
2m 3m

80 kN

ΣFx = 0; Ax = 80 kN Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ay = 80 kN Ans

ΣMC = 0; 80(5) – By(3) = 0

By = 133.3 = 133 kN Ans

ΣMD = 0; –80(0.8) + 133.3(3) – Bx(1) = 0

Bx = 336 kN Ans

ΣFx = 0; 80 + 336 – Cx = 0

Cx = 416 kN Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; –80 + 133.3 – Cy = 0

Cy = 53.3 kN Ans

195
5-54. The engine hoist is used to support the
200-kg engine. Determine the force acting in the
hydraulic cylinder AB, the horizontal and vertical
components of force at the pin C, and the reactions
at the fixed support D.

10°

350 mm
1250 mm

G E
A C

850 mm

550 mm
D
A

196
5-55. Determine the horizontal and vertical
components of force at pins B and C.

1m 1m

0.1 m 500 N

0.4 m
C
B

1.5 m

ΣMA = 0; –Cy(2) + Cx(1.5) + 500(0.9) = 0

ΣFx = 0; Ax = Cx

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 500 – Ay – Cy = 0

ΣMB = 0; –500(0.5) – 500 × 0.9 + Cy(2) = 0

Cy = 350 = 350 N Ans

Cx = 166.67 = 166.7 N Ans

ΣFx = 0; 166.67 + 500 – Bx = 0

Bx = 666.7 N Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; By – 500 + 350 = 0

By = 150 N Ans

197
*5-56. The pipe cutter is clamped around the
pipe P. If the wheel at A exerts a normal force of
FA = 80 N on the pipe, determine the normal forces
of wheels B and C on the pipe. Also compute the
pin reaction on the wheel at C. The three wheels
each have a radius of 7 mm and the pipe has an
outer radius of 10 mm.

10 mm

B 10 mm
A
P

10
θ = sin–1   = 36.03°
 17 

Equations of Equilibrium :

+↑ ΣFy = 0; NB sin 36.03° – NC sin 36.03° = 0

NB = NC

ΣFx = 0; 80 – NC cos 36.03° – NC cos 36.03° = 0

NB = NC = 49.5 N Ans

198
5-57. Determine the horizontal and vertical
components of force at each pin . The suspended
cylinder has a weight of 800 N (≈ 80 kg).

1.5 m

2m

0.5 m

A B C

2m

3m 1m

2 
ΣMB = 0; FCD   (1.5) – 800(2) = 0
 13 

FCD = 1923 N

3
Cx = Dx = (1923) = 1600 N Ans
13

2
Cy = Dy = (1923) = 1067 N Ans
13

2
+↑ ΣFy = 0; –By + (1923) – 800 = 0
13

By = 266.68 N = 266.7 N Ans

ΣME = 0; –Bx(2) + 800(1.5) + 266.68(1.5) = 0

Bx = 800 N Ans

ΣFx = 0; Ex + 800 – 800 = 0

Ex = 0 Ans

+↑ ΣFy = 0; –Ey + 266.68 = 0

Ey = 266.68 N = 266.7 N Ans

6Cy – 9Cx + 10 = 0

3
ΣFx = 0; –Ax + 800 + (1923) – 800 = 0
13

Ax = 1600 N Ans

199
5-58. The toggle clamp is subjected to a force F at
the handle. Determine the vertical clamping force
acting at E.

a/2
1.5 a

F
B
C a/2

A 60° D
E a/2

1.5 a

200
5-59. Determine the horizontal and vertical
components of force which the pins at A, B, and C
exert on member ABC of the frame.

400 N

1.5 m 2m

C D

1.5 m
2.5 m
300 N

B 2m

300 N
2.5 m
1.5 m
A E

ΣME = 0; –Ay(3.5) + 400(2) + 300(3.5) + 300(1.5) = 0

Ay = 657.1 = 657 N Ans

ΣMD = 0; –Cy(3.5) + 400(2) = 0

Cy = 228.6 = 229 N Ans

ΣMB = 0; Cx = 0 Ans

ΣFx = 0; FBD = FBE

 5 
+↑ ΣFy = 0; 657.1 – 228.6 – 2   FBD = 0
 74 

FBD = FBE = 368.7 N

Bx = 0 Ans

5
By = (368.7)(2) = 429 N Ans
74

201
*5-60. The derrick is pin-connected to the pivot
at A. Determine the largest mass that can be
supported by the derrick if the maximum force that
can be sustained by the pin A is 18 kN.

C
5m

D
60°
A

AB is a two-force member.

Pin B

Require FAB = 18 kN

W
+↑ ΣFy = 0; 18 sin 60° – sin 60° – W = 0
2

W = 10.878 kN

10.878
m= = 1.11 Mg Ans
9.81

202
5-61. Determine the required mass of the suspended
cylinder if the tension in the chain wrapped around
the freely turning gear is to be 2 kN. Also, what is
the magnitude of the resultant force on pin A?

2 kN
45°
B

2 kN
30°
2m

ΣMA = 0; – 4(2 cos 30°) + W cos 45°(2 cos 30°) + W sin 45°(2 sin 30°) = 0

W = 3.586 kN

m = 3.586(1000)/9.81 = 366 kg Ans

ΣFx = 0; 4 – 3.586 cos 45° – Ax = 0

Ax = 1.464 kN

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 3.586 sin 45° – Ay = 0

Ay = 2.536 kN

FA = (1.464)2 + (2.536)2 = 2.93 kN Ans

203
5-62. The pumping unit is used to recover oil. When
the walking beam ABC is horizontal, the force acting
in the wireline at the well head is 1000 N. Determine
the torque M which must be exerted by the motor in
order to overcome this load. The horse-head C weighs
240 N and has a center of gravity at GC. The walking
beam ABC has a weight of 520 N and a center of
gravity at GB, and the counterweight has a weight of
800 N and a center of gravity at GW. The pitman,
AD, is pin-connected at its ends and has negligible
weight.

1.5 m 1.8 m 0.3 m

GC
GB C
A B
70°

M 20°
D Gw
E
1000 N

0.75 m
0.9 m

Free Body Diagram : The solution for this problem will be simplified
if one realizes that the pitman AD is a two force member.

Equations of Equilibrium : From FBD (a),

ΣMB = 0; FAD sin 70° (1.5) – 240(1.8) – 1000(2.1) = 0
FAD = 1796.33 N Ans

From (b),
ΣME = 0; 1796.33(0.9) – 800 cos 20° (1.65) – M = 0
M = 376.3 N · m Ans

204
5-63. Determine the force P on the cable if the
spring is compressed 10 mm when the mechanism is
in the position shown. The spring has a stiffness of
k = 12 kN/m.

150 mm 150 mm 100 mm

150 mm A
B D

30°

C
P
600 mm

10 
FE = ks = 12  = 0.12 kN = 120 N
 1000 

ΣMA = 0; Bx(150) + By(150) – 120(750) = 0

Bx + By = 600 N [1]
ΣMD = 0; By(150) – P(100) = 0
By = 0.6667P [2]

ΣFx = 0; –Bx + FCD cos 30° = 0 [3]

ΣMB = 0; FCD sin 30° (150) – P(250) = 0
FCD = 3.333P

Thus from Eq. [3]

Bx = 2.8867P

Using Eqs. [1] and [2] :

2.8867P + 0.6667P = 600 N
P = 168.85 N Ans

205
*5-64. Determine the force that the jaws J of the
metal cutters exert on the smooth cable C if 100-N
forces are applied to the handles. The jaws are pinned
at E and A, and D and B. There is also a pin at F.

15°
100 N

400 mm

15°
A 20 mm
J
E
15°
C
F 15°
D B
30 mm 80 mm
20 mm

400 mm

100 N
15°

Free Body Diagram : The solution for this problem will be simplified
if one realizes that members ED is a two force member.

Equations of Equilibrium : From FBD (b),

ΣFx = 0; Ax = 0

From (a),
ΣMF = 0; Ay sin 15°(20) + 100 sin 15°(20)
– 100 cos 15°(400) = 0
Ay = 7364.10 N

From FBD (b),

ΣME = 0; 7364.10(80) – FC(30) = 0
FC = 19637.60 N = 19.6 N Ans

206
5-65. The compound arrangement of the pan scale
is shown. If the mass on the pan is 4 kg, determine
the horizontal and vertical components at pins A, B,
and C and the distance x of the 25-g mass to keep
the scale in balance.

100 mm 75 mm
300 mm 350 mm

F E
C x

B
G 50 mm

A D

4 kg

Free Body Diagram : The solution for this problem will be simplified
if one realizes that members DE and FG are two force members.

Equations of Equilibrium : From FBD (a),

ΣMA = 0; FDE(375) – 39.24(50) = 0 FDE = 5.232 N
+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ay + 5.232 – 39.24 = 0
Ay = 34.0 N Ans

ΣFx = 0; Ax = 0 Ans

From (b),
ΣMC = 0; FFG(300) – 5.232(75) = 0 FFG = 1.308 N
+↑ ΣFy = 0; Cy – 1.308 – 5.232 = 0
Cy = 6.54 N Ans

ΣFx = 0; Cx = 0 Ans

From (c),
ΣMB = 0; 1.308(100) – 0.24525(825 – x) = 0
x = 292 mm Ans
+↑ ΣFy = 0; 1.308 – 0.24525 – By = 0
By = 1.06 N Ans

ΣFx = 0; Bx = 0 Ans

207
208
5-67. Determine the horizontal and vertical D
components of force that the pins at A, B, and C exert
on the frame. The cylinder has a mass of 80 kg. 1m
C
B
0.7 m
0.5 m

A
Equations of Equilibrium : From FBD (b),
ΣMB = 0; 784.8(1.7) – Cy(1) = 0
Cy = 1334.16 N = 1.33 kN Ans
+↑ ΣFy = 0; By + 784.8 – 1334.16 = 0
By = 549 N Ans
ΣFx = 0; C x – Bx = 0 [1]

From FBD (a),

ΣMA = 0; Cx(0.5) + 1334.16(1) – 784.8(1.7) – 784.8(1.9) = 0
Cx = 2982.24 N = 2.98 kN Ans
+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ay + 1334.16 – 784.8 – 784.8 = 0
Ay = 235 N Ans
ΣFx = 0; Ax – 2982.24 = 0
Ax = 2982.24 N = 2.98 kN Ans

Substitute Cx = 2982.24 N into Eq. [1] yields,

Bx = 2982.24 N = 2.98 kN Ans

*5-68. By squeezing on the hand brake of the

bicycle, the rider subjects the brake cable to a tension
of 200 N. If the caliper mechanism is pin-connected
to the bicycle frame at B, determine the normal force
each brake pad exerts on the rim of the wheel. Is this
the force that stops the wheel from turning? Explain.

60 mm

60 mm
B
B
Bx

200 N 75 mm
75 mm By

ΣMB = 0; –N(75) + 200(60) = 0 N

N = 160 N Ans

This normal force does not stop the wheel from turning. A frictional
force (see Chapter 8), which acts along on the wheel’s rim stops the
wheel. Ans

209
5-69. If a force of P = 30 N is applied perpendicular
to the handle of the mechanism, determine the
magnitude of force F for equilibrium. The members
are pin-connected at A, B, C, and D.

P = 30 N

100 mm
625 mm 125 mm

100 mm
B
125 mm
A
125 mm
D
C

750 mm

ΣMA = 0; FBC(100) – 30(625) = 0

FBC = 187.5 N

ΣFx = 0; –Ax + 30 = 0

Ax = 30 N

+↑ ΣFy = 0; –Ay + 187.5 = 0

Ay = 187.5 N

ΣMD = 0; –125(30) – 187.5(225) + 975(F) = 0

F = 47.12 N Ans

210
5-70. The bucket of the backhoe and its contents
have a weight of 3000 N (≈ 300 kg) and a center of
gravity at G. Determine the forces of the hydraulic
cylinder AB and in links AC and AD in order to hold
the load in the position shown. The bucket is pinned
at E.

45°
A D
E
120° 0.4 m
C G

0.1 m 0.6 m

Free Body Diagram : The solution for this problem will be

simplified if one realizes that the hydraulic cylinder AB, links
AD and AC are two force members.

Equations of Equilibrium : From FBD (a),

ΣME = 0; FAC cos 60° (0.4) + FAC sin 60° (0.1)

– 3000(0.6) = 0
FAC = 6280.47 N = 6.28 kN Ans

Using method of joint [FBD (b)],

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 6280.47 sin 60° – FAB cos 45° = 0

FAB = 7691.97 N = 7.692 kN Ans

ΣFx = 0; FAD – 7691.97 sin 45° – 6280.47 cos 60° = 0

FAD = 8579.28 N = 8.58 kN Ans

211
5-71. Determine the reactions at the supports of the
compound beam. There is a short vertical link at C.

5 kN 5 kN
3 kN

C
A D
B
5m 5m 5m 5m 5m 5m

For the right portion of the beam :

ΣMC = 0; Dy(10) – 5000(5) = 0
Dy = 2500 = 2.5 kN Ans

Then Cy = 5000 – 2500 = 2.5 kN

For the left portion :

ΣMA = 0; By(10) – 5000(5) – 3000(15) – 2500(20) = 0
By = 12 000 = 12 kN Ans
+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ay – 5000 + 12 000 – 3000 – 2500 = 0
Ay = –1500 = 1.5 kN ↓ Ans
Ax = 0 Ans

212
5-72. The two-bar mechanism consists of a lever
arm AB and smooth link CD, which has a fixed
collar at its end C and a roller at the other end D.
Determine the force P needed to hold the lever
in the position θ. The spring has a stiffness k and
unstretched length 2L. The roller contacts either the
top or bottom portion of the horizontal guide.

2L C

θ k
A D

L
Free Body Diagram : The spring compresses x = 2L – .
sin θ
 1 
Then, the spring force developed is Fsp = kx = kL 2 – .
 sin θ 

Equations of Equilibrium : From FBD (a),

 1 
ΣFx = 0; kL 2 – – FCD sin θ = 0
 sin θ 

kL  1 
FCD = 2 –
sin θ  sin θ 

ΣMD = 0 MC = 0

From FBD (b),

kL  1 
ΣMA = 0; P(2L) – 2 – (L cot θ) = 0
sin θ  sin θ 

kL
P= (2 – csc θ) Ans
2 tan θ sin θ

213
5-73. Determine the force in each member of the
truss and indicate whether the members are in tension
or compression.

700 N A
700 N

D
2m

B C

2m

Joint A :

ΣFx = 0; 700 – FAD sin 45° = 0

FAD = 989.95 N = 990 N (C) Ans
+↑ ΣFy = 0; 989.95 cos 45° – FAB = 0
FAB = 700 N (T) Ans

Joint B :
+ ΣFx′ = 0; FDB – 700 sin 45° = 0
FDB = 494.97 N = 495 N (C) Ans
+ ΣFy′ = 0; FDC – 700 cos 45° – 989.95 = 0
FDC = 1484.92 N = 1.48 kN (C) Ans

Joint C :

ΣFx = 0; 1484.92 cos cos 45° – FCB = 0

FCB = 1050 N = 1.05 kN (T) Ans
+↑ ΣFy = 0; Cy – 1484.92 sin 45° = 0
Cy = 1050 N

214
5-74. The Howe bridge truss is subjected to the
loading shown. Determine the force in members HD,
CD, and GD, and indicate whether the members are
in tension or compression.

40 kN
30 kN
20 kN 20 kN

I H G F
J

4m

A
B C D E

16 m, 4 @ 4 m

Support Reaction :
ΣMA = 0; Ey(16) – 40(12) – 20(8) – 20(4) = 0
Ey = 45 kN

Method of Sections : From FBD (a)

+↑ ΣFy = 0; –FHD sin 45° – 40 + 45 = 0
FHD = 7.07 kN (C) Ans
ΣMH = 0; 45(8) – 40(4) – FCD(4) = 0
FCD = 50 kN (T) Ans

From FBD (b)

+↑ ΣFy = 0; 45 – 40 – FGD = 0
FGD = 5 kN (T) Ans

215
5-75. The Howe bridge truss is subjected to the
loading shown. Determine the force in members HI,
HB, and BC, and indicate whether the members are in
tension or compression.

40 kN
30 kN
20 kN 20 kN

I H G F
J

4m

A
B C D E

16 m, 4 @ 4 m

Support Reaction :
ΣMA = 0; Ey(16) – 40(12) – 20(8) – 20(4) = 0
Ey = 45 kN

Method of Sections :
+↑ ΣFy = 0; FHD sin 45° + 45 – 40 – 20 = 0
FHB = 21.2 kN (C) Ans
ΣMH = 0; 45(8) – 40(4) – FBC(4) = 0
FBC = 50 kN (T) Ans
ΣMB = 0; 45(12) – 40(8) – 20(4) – FHI(4) = 0
FHI = 35 kN (C) Ans

216
*5-76. Determine the horizontal and vertical
components of force at pins A, B, and C of the two-
member frame.

750 N

A B
2m 1m

2m

3m

900 N

1m
C

1.5 m 1.5 m

1200 N

From FBD (a)

1
ΣMA = 0; By(3) – (500)(3)(2) = 0 By = 500 N
2

1
+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ay + 500 – (500)(3) = 0 Ay = 250 N Ans
2

ΣFx = 0; Bx – Ax = 0 [1]

From FBD (b)

1
ΣMC = 0; Bx(3) – (500)(3) – (600)(3)(1) – 400(3)(1.5) = 0
2
Bx = 1400 N = 1.40 kN Ans
+↑ ΣFy = 0; Cy – 400(3) – 500 = 0
Cy = 1700 N = 1.70 kN Ans

1
ΣFx = 0; Cx + (600)(3) – 1400 = 0
2
Cx =500 N Ans

From Eq. [1]

1400 – Ax = 0 Ax = 1400 N = 1.40 kN Ans

217
5-77. The compound beam is supported by a rocker
at B and fixed to the wall at A. If it is hinged (pinned)
together at C, determine the reactions at the supports.

500 N 200 N

13 12
5 60° 4000 N · m

A C B

4m 4m 8m 4m

(a) From FBD (a)

ΣMC = 0; By(12) – 200 sin 60°(8) = 0
By = 115.47 N Ans
+↑ ΣFy = 0; Cy + 115.47 – 200 sin 60° = 0
Cy = 57.735 N
+→ ΣFx = 0; Cx + 200 cos 60° = 0 Cx = –100 N

(b) From FBD (b)

 5
+→ ΣFx = 0; Ax – (–100) – 500 =0
 13 
Ax = 92.31 N Ans

 12 
+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ay – 57.735 – 500 =0
 13 
Ay = 519.27 N Ans

 12 
ΣMA = 0; MA – 57.735(8) – 500 (4) = 0
 13 
MA = 2308.0 N · m Ans

218
5-78. Determine the horizontal and vertical
components of reaction at A and B. The pin at C is
fixed to member AE and fits through a smooth slot in
member BD.

3m 3m

D
2m
45°
0.5 m

A C
E

3m

180 kN
B

From FBD (a)

 3   5 
ΣMB = 0; FC – 180 =0
 sin 45°   sin 45° 
FC = 300 kN

ΣFx = 0; Bx + 180 cos 45° – 300 cos 45° = 0

Bx = 84.9 kN Ans
+↑ ΣFy = 0; 300 sin 45° – 180 sin 45° – By = 0
By = 84.9 kN Ans

From FBD (b)

ΣFx = 0; –Ax + 300 cos 45° – 127.28 = 0

Ax = 84.9 kN Ans
+↑ ΣFy = 0; Ay – 300 sin 45° – 52.72 = 0
Ay = 265 kN Ans
ΣMA = 0; MA – 52.72(6) – 300 sin 45°(3) = 0
MA = 953 kN · m Ans

219