Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET)

Statics - Exercises

dr. ir. J.P. Schilder

dr. ir. J. Havinga

Date:
October 10, 2022
Contents
1 Introduction 3

2 Equilibrium of a particle 4

3 Equilibrium of a rigid body 9

4 Equilibrium of a system 15

5 Trusses 19

6 Pulleys 26

7 Frames 28

8 Machines 32

9 Distributed loads 34

10 Centroids 38

11 Internal loads 43

12 Friction 47
1 Introduction
In the Statics course, it is assumed that you know how to solve a system of (linear) equa-
tions. If you want to practice solving linear equations, you may do the following exercises.
Otherwise, proceed to the next chapter.

Exercise 1.1 - Linear system of equations with three variables

Determine the values of the unknowns A, B and C using the following set of linear
equations:

5A + 2(C + B) = 5
C − 2(2A + B) = 0
B + 2A + 7 = 4C

Solution:
A = −1 B=3 C=2

Exercise 1.2 - Linear system of equations with five variables

Determine the values of the unknowns A, B, C, D and E using the following set of
linear equations:

2(A + C) + 3B + 9 = 0
C + 3D = 10
−(E − D + B − C) + 2C − B − 2 = −5
A + 2(C − E + 2D) = 0
2C = −D

Solution:
A=2 B = −3 C = −2 D=4 E=7

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2 Equilibrium of a particle
Exercise 2.1 - Particle subjected to three forces
The figure below shows a particle subjected to several forces. Determine the magni-
tudes of forces F1 and F2 such that the particle is in equilibrium.
y F
F1 2

45° 60°
x

2N
30°

√ √ Solution:
√
F1 = 3 2 − 6 N F2 = 4 − 2 3 N

Exercise 2.2 - Particle subjected to two forces

The figure below shows a particle subjected to two forces. Determine the magnitude
of forces F1 and F2 such that the particle is in equilibrium.
y
F1

55°
x
F2
72°

Exercise 2.3 - Particle subjected to opposite forces

The figure below shows a particle subjected to two opposite forces. Find the relation-
ship between the magnitudes of those forces such that the particle is in equilibrium.
y
F1
α x
α
F2

Given your solution of the previous and the current exercise, formulate in which cases
a particle in 2D with two forces acting on it, can be in equilibrium.

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Exercise 2.4 - Particle subjected to five forces

The figure below shows a particle subjected to five forces. Determine the magnitudes
of forces F1 and F2 in terms of α, β, γ and F such that the particle is in equilibrium.
y
F1
4F F
α β
x
F2
γ 2F

Check with calculator:

With α = 30◦ , β= 25◦ ,
γ = 60◦ and F = 1N:
F1 = −1.42 N F2 = 0.83 N

Exercise 2.5 - Block suspended by cables

A block with mass m is hangs on two separate cables, with gravitational load mg. The
block is in equilibrium. Determine the forces in both cables.

3
4
5 4 3 5

Solution:
F1 = 45 mg (left cable) F2 = 53 mg (right cable)

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Exercise 2.6 - Sideways lifted mass

The figure below shows a mass m that is suspended by two cables, experience gravity
and lifted sideways by an externally applied force F . Determine the forces in both
cables such that the block is in equilibrium.

30°

30° F

√ √ Solution:
F1 = 3F − mg (bottom cable) F2 = 3mg − F (top cable)

Exercise 2.7 - Resultant force

The figure below shows a particle that is subjected to three forces. Determine the
components Fx and Fy of force F , such that the resultant force of these three forces is
80N and directed along the dashed line.
Fy

Fx
50N
30°
45°
90N

√ √ Solution:
√
Fx = −40 2 + 5 N Fy = 45 3 − 40 2 N

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Exercise 2.8 - Lamps suspended from ceiling

Two lamps with masses m1 and m2 are hanging from the ceiling by means of three
separate cables. Depending on the ratio of the masses m1 /m2 , the equilibrium position
of the lamps will change. For a certain ratio m1 /m2 , the lamps will hang in the
following orientation:

4
3 3
5 12 4 5
5
m1 13

m2

For each suspension point above both lamps, the different forces acting on the point
can be identified (note that action = −reaction, therefore the force F2 from the cable
in between the lamps acts on both points):

y F1 4
3
5 12
x 5
13 F2 F3

12 5 4
m1 g F2 5 3
13

m2 g

Determine the ratio m1 /m2 , that causes the lamps to hang in the given orientation.
Also, determine the values of the cable forces F1 , F2 and F3 , as function of the mass
m2 and the gravitational acceleration g.
Solution:
4 5 13 20
m1 /m2 = 21 F1 = 7 m2 g F2 = 21 m2 g F3 = 21 m2 g

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Exercise 2.9 - Unknown force and direction

The figure below shows a particle subjected to several forces. Determine the magnitude
F and direction θ such that the particle is in equilibrium.
sin(θ)
Make use of the fact cos(θ) = tan(θ).

For this exercise you should use a calculator.

y
3N
1N
55° 25° x
θ 57°
F 2N
Solution:
F ≈ 1.234 N θ ≈ 77.13◦

Exercise 2.10 - Lift force as a function of configuration

The figure below shows a mass m that is suspended by a cable and lifted sideways by
an externally applied force F . Initially F = 0 and θ = π2 . Then, F is increased slowly
until θ = 0. Determine the value of F as function of θ, m and g. Plot F as a function
of θ.

m g

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3 Equilibrium of a rigid body
Exercise 3.1 - Weightlifting
The figure below shows a person lifting weights. Draw a free body diagram of the
barbell, determine the equilibrium equations, and solve for the vertical forces F1 and
F2 that the person has to deliver to hold the weights.

m m

L L L

Solution:
F1 = F2 = mg (upwards)

Exercise 3.2 - Moments on a body

The figure below shows moment M and forces Fx and Fy working on a body. Determine
the magnitude of these forces and moment such that the body is in equilibrium.
125N

M
Fx
Fy 125N
0.5m 0.3m 0.2m

Solution:
Fx = 0 N Fy = 0 N M = 37.5 Nm

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Exercise 3.3 - Screwdriver

The figure below shows a screwdriver providing a moment M on a body. Determine
M such that the system is in equilibrium.

20N
0.5m 30°
30° 0.5m
20N
Solution:
M = −10 Nm

Exercise 3.4 - L-shaped beam

The figure below shows an L-shaped beam. Determine the reaction forces in point A
and B such that the body is in equilibrium.
2N

A B 30°

2L 3L
2L

4N
2L

N
Solution:
Ax = 3 N (to the left) Ay = 2 N (upwards) FB = 0 N (upwards)

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Exercise 3.5 - Diving board

The figure below shows a person using the diving board in a swimming pool. The force
exerted by the person is denoted by F . Determine the reaction forces at point A and
point B such that the system is in equilibrium. Start by drawing a clear and complete
free body diagram.

1.5m 3m F

A B

Solution:
Ax = 0 Ay = 2F (downwards) By = 3F (upwards)

Exercise 3.6 - Sign board

The figure below shows a sign board attached to a beam. The center of mass of the
sign is located at point G. Determine the reaction forces at the clamped support (right
side) to keep the system in equilibrium. Start by drawing a clear and complete free
body diagram.
0.6m
0.2m 0.1m

Solution:
Ax = 0 Ay = FG (upwards) MA = 0.4FG (clockwise)

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Exercise 3.7 - Wheelbarrow

The figure below shows a man moving a wheelbarrow. The center of mass can shift,
being G1 , G2 and G3 . The force exerted by the mass is the same G1 = G2 = G3 = 60
N. For each of these centres of mass, determine the force the man has to exert on each
of the two handles in order to hold the wheelbarrow in equilibrium. Start by drawing
a clear and complete free body diagram.

G1 G2 G3

0.6m 0.5m

0.2m 0.4m 0.6m

0.3m
Solution:
F = 4 N (upwards) for G1
F = 10 N (upwards) for G2
F = 18 N (upwards) for G3

Exercise 3.8 - Hammer removing nail

The figure below shows a hammer used to remove a nail. In the figure, point A indicates
the point of contact between the hammer and the nail, and point B indicates the point
of contact between the hammer and the workbench. In order to remove the nail, a
force of 30 N parallel to the nail is required at point A. Determine the force F required
to remove the nail, if the hammer rotates about point B. Start by drawing a clear and
complete free body diagram.
F
30°

75 mm

450mm
B 30°
A

30 mm

Hint: When writing equilibrium equations, note that forces can be decomposed in
different ways. Consider how to decompose force F such that it becomes easier include
it in the moment equilibrium equation.
Solution:
√
F = 24/(1 + 6 3) N

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Exercise 3.9 - Crane lifting weight

The figure below shows a crane lifting a mass. The crane angle can be adjusted between
0 ≤ θ ≤ 90. For a mass of m kg, determine the relation between the angle and the
reaction forces and moment at the support to the ground. Start by drawing a clear
and complete free body diagram.

L1

L2
A θ m g

Exercise 3.10 - Crane lifting weight 2

Consider the crane used in Exercise 3.9. Now, create a free body diagram of a section
of the boom at the right side of point A, assuming a clamped support at this position.
Align the reaction forces parallel and perpendicular to the boom, and determine the
reaction forces and reaction moment at point A as function of the angle θ.

L1

L2
A θ m g

Hint: make use of sin2 (θ) + cos2 (θ) = 1.

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Exercise 3.11 - Hand truck transport

The figure below shows a man using a hand truck to move a heavy box up the step.
The gravitational force acting on the truck and crate together is equal to 500 N, with
the center of gravity at point G. Determine the reaction force on the wheels at point
A, and the force at point B required to lift the load. Start by drawing a clear and
complete free body diagram.

Note: the hand truck is not in contact with the floor during lifting.

B 0.4m
0.5m
0.2m G 0.4m
60°
A
0.1m 0.4m

√ √ Solution:
Bx = (3000 3 + 4500)/(13 3 − 1) N (to the left)
√ √By = 500 N (upwards)
Ax = (3000 3 + 4500)/(13 3 − 1) N (to the right)

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4 Equilibrium of a system
Exercise 4.1 - Load on a pulley
The following structure carries a weight. The force exerted by the hanging mass due
to gravity is 900 N. The weight hangs on a rope, that runs over a pulley with a radius
of 0.25 m. At the other end, the rope is connected to the horizontal beam at point E.

Draw all FBD’s required to solve the reaction forces at points A and B. Mention
which equations can be used with each FBD, and which unknowns are present in these
equations. Check that the number of equations and unknowns match.
1.5m D
B C
E
1m
1m
A

Hint: the tension in the rope is constant, meaning that the force applied by the rope
to point E and the force applied by the rope to the weight is the same.

Exercise 4.2 - Compound beam

A compound beam made of members ABD and DC is supported by a pin at B and
hinged-rollers at A and C. There is a hinge (pin) at D.

Draw all relevant FBD’s to solve the reaction forces. Mention which equations can be
used with each FBD, and which unknowns are present in these equations. Check that
the number of equations and unknowns match.
16kN 6kN 8kN

60°
B D
A C

3m

4m 4m 4m 4m
2m

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Exercise 4.3 - Toggle clamp

Draw all relevant FBD’s to solve the reaction forces and the clamping force acting at
E. Mention which equations can be used with each FBD, and which unknowns are
present in these equations. Check that the number of equations and unknowns match.
√3 a a/2 1.5a

F
B C a/2
A 60° D
E a/2

Exercise 4.4 - Man on a ladder

A man standing on a ladder exerts a force F on the ladder. Note that the member AC
is one piece, as well as the member CE. The distance between A and E is 3 m, and
between B and D is 1.5 m. The distance between B and G along the member AC is
0.3 m.

Draw all relevant FBD’s to solve the reaction forces in A and E. Mention which equa-
tions can be used with each FBD, and which unknowns are present in these equations.
Check that the number of equations and unknowns match.

G
B D
F

60° 60°
A E

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Exercise 4.5 - Pump Jack

A counterweight, with its center of mass at G, causes a gravitational force of 3200N.
It is mounted on the pitman crank AB of the oil pumping unit. The motor supplies a
torque of M = 2250 Nm.

Draw all relevant FBD’s to determine the force F when the system is in equilibrium.
Mention which equations can be used with each FBD, and which unknowns are present
in these equations. Check that the number of equations and unknowns match.
2m 3m

B D
C
30° E
G 30°
M
A 0.5m F
0.5m

Exercise 4.6 - Skid steer loader

The skid steer loader experiences a gravitational force of 12000 N with center of mass
at G1 . The bucket carries a load of 3000 N, with center of mass at G2 ,

Draw all relevant FBD’s to determine the reactions of each of the wheels A and B on
the ground and the force in the hydraulic cylinder CD and at the pin E. Mention
which equations can be used with each FBD, and which unknowns are present in these
equations. Check that the number of equations and unknowns match.
1.25m

30°
E
D
G2 C
G1

0.5m

A B
0.25m
1.5m 0.75m

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Exercise 4.7 - Load hanging on a beam

Draw the free body diagram of the beam, which supports a 780 N load and is supported
by a hinge at the left side and a cable that wraps around a pulley. Determine the
reaction forces in the pin and the tension in the cable.

3
5 4

2m 2m 1m

Hint: The cable tension on both sides of the cable is equal.

Solution:
T = 750 N Ax = 450 N (to the right) Ay = 570 N (downwards)

Exercise 4.8 - Jib crane

The jib crane is supported by a pin at C and a rod AB. The rod can hold a maximum
tension of 50 kN. If the vertical load at G is equal to 20 kN, acting at a horizontal
distance x of point C, determine the maximum allowable distance x and the corre-
sponding horizontal and vertical components of reaction force at C.

4m
A

3.2m

C 0.2m B

Hint: The force in the rod acts in the direction of the rod itself.
Solution:
Cx = 40 kN (to the right) Cy = 10 kN (downwards) x = 6.4 m

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5 Trusses
Exercise 5.1 - Simple truss
First, determine whether the following exercise can be solved by checking the number
of equations and the number of unknowns.

If the question cannot be solved, draw a free body diagram for each joint. (And option-
ally write the equilibrium equations for each joint.)

Otherwise, determine the force in each member of the truss. State if the members are
in tension or compression.

1.5m
C

1.5m
D
A
2m 2m

300 kN

If the problem can be solved, the solution is:

Zero force: FAB = 0 kN FAC = 0 kN
Tension: FBC = 500 kN FCD = 500 kN
Compression: FAD = −400 kN

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Exercise 5.2 - T truss

First, determine whether the following exercise can be solved by checking the number
of equations and the number of unknowns.

If the question cannot be solved, draw a free body diagram for each joint. (And option-
ally write the equilibrium equations for each joint.)

If the maximum force that any member can support is 4 kN in tension and 3 kN in
compression, determine the maximum force P that can be supported at point B. Take
d = 1m.

P B

d
A C
F D
d

d d/2 d/2 d

Hint: First solve all bar forces as function of P by hand, and thereafter use a calculator
to determine the critical bar forces and determine the maximum force P.

If the problem can be solved, the solution is:

P = 1.25 kN

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Exercise 5.3 - Simple bridge

First, determine whether the following exercise can be solved by checking the number
of equations and the number of unknowns.

If the question cannot be solved, draw a free body diagram for each joint. (And option-
ally write the equilibrium equations for each joint.)

Determine the force in each member of the truss in terms of the load P and state if
the members are in tension or compression (given that the value of P is positive).

B C
L

L L L L

A D
E
L L
P

√ If the √
problem can be solved,
√ the solution
√ is:
Tension: FAE = 16 3P FBE = 13 3P FCE = 13 3P FDE = 16 3P
√ √ √
Compression: FAB = − 13 3P FBC = − 13 3P FBC = − 13 3P
√
FCD = − 13 3P

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Exercise 5.4 - Star truss

First, determine whether the following exercise can be solved by checking the number
of equations and the number of unknowns.

If the question cannot be solved, draw a free body diagram for each joint. (And option-
ally write the equilibrium equations for each joint.)

In the given truss, the geometry of all four ’arms’ is the same.

Determine the force in member F H of the given truss. State if the member is in
tension or compression, given that the value of force P is positive.

1m
B C

F
G
1m 120 deg
E
H D
A 1m
P

If the problem can be√solved, the

√ solution is:
FF H = ( 3P )/(2 2) (Tension)

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Exercise 5.5 - Warren truss

First, determine whether the following exercise can be solved by checking the number
of equations and the number of unknowns.

If the question cannot be solved, draw a free body diagram for each joint. (And option-
ally write the equilibrium equations for each joint.)

Determine the force in members BC, CG and GF of the Warren truss. State if the
members are in tension or compression. Think about what method is best in this case.

3m 3m
B C D

3m 3m
A E
G F
3m 3m 3m
6kN 8kN

If the problem can be solved, the solution

√ is:
Tension:
√ FGF = (14/3)√3 kN
Compression: FBC = −(40/9) 3 kN FCG = −(4/9) 3 kN

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Exercise 5.6 - Tower truss

First, determine whether the following exercise can be solved by checking the number
of equations and the number of unknowns.

If the question cannot be solved, draw a free body diagram for each joint. (And option-
ally write the equilibrium equations for each joint.)

Determine the force in members BC, BE and EF and state if the members are in
tension or compression.

D
5kN
5kN
4m
C E
10kN
4m
B F
10kN
4m
H
A G

4m

If the problem can be solved, the solution is:

Tension: FBC = 5 kN FBE = 21.2
Compression: FEF = −25 kN

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Exercise 5.7 - Zero-force

First, determine whether the following exercise can be solved by checking the number
of equations and the number of unknowns.

If the question cannot be solved, draw a free body diagram for each joint. (And option-
ally write the equilibrium equations for each joint.)

Determine the force in members EJ and GF of the truss and state if these members
are in tension or compression. Also indicate all zero-force members.

5m

5m
1.5m 1.5m 1.5m
0.7

0.7
C D
1m
B
1m
I J

2m

A E
H G F

6kN 6kN

If the problem can be solved, the solution is:

Tension: FGF = (45/8) kN
Compression: FEJ = −(75/8) kN

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6 Pulleys
Exercise 6.1 - Pulleys supporting a crate
Determine the force P required to hold the crate with mass m in equilibrium. The two
cables are connected to the bottom of the hanger at point D.

C
A

m
P

Solution:
P = 14 mg

Exercise 6.2 - Weight in equilibrium

Determine the force P required to hold the weight in equilibrium. The largest pulley
is attached to the bar with a pin joint. The ropes are attached to the bar.

60N
Solution:
P = 60 N

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Exercise 6.3 - Pulleys holding a weight

Determine the force P required to hold the mass of 50 kg in equilibrium. In this
exercise you may assume that the gravitational acceleration g = 10m/s2 (instead of
the usual g = 9.81m/s2 ).

50kg

Solution:
P = 250/13 N

Exercise 6.4 - Double tackle pulley

The principle of a double tackle pulley can be seen in the figure below. Determine the
force P required to hold the 800 N force in equilibrium.

60mm

800N
Solution:
P = 200 N

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7 Frames
Exercise 7.1 - Load on a pulley
Determine the reaction forces at the points A and B. The force exerted by the hanging
mass due to gravity is 900 N. The pulley has a radius of 0.25 m. The rope is connected
to the horizontal beam in point E. Make use of the free body diagrams that were
constructed in Exercise 4.1.
1.5m D
B C
E
1m
1m
A

Solution:
Ax = 2700 N (to the right) Ay = 300 N (upwards)
Bx = 2700 N (to the left) By = 600 N (upwards)

Exercise 7.2 - Compound beam

A compound beam made of members ABD and DC is supported by a pin at B and
hinged-rollers at A and C. There is a hinge (pin) at D. Determine the reaction forces.
Make use of the free body diagrams that were constructed in Exercise 4.2.
16kN 6kN 8kN

60°
B D
A C

3m

4m 4m 4m 4m
2m

√ Solution:
Ay = 13 − 9
4 √ 3 kN (upwards) Bx = 4 kN (to the right)
2
31 21
√
By = 2 + 4 3 kN (upwards) Cy = 3 kN (upwards)

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Exercise 7.3 - External forces on frame

Determine the horizontal and vertical components of the forces which the pins at point
A and B exert on the frame. The bars CD and EF are attached to the vertical bars
AD and BC by hinges. Try to use the fact that there are two-force members present
when solving the system.
2m
D C
F3
1.5m
E
F2
1.5m
F1
F 1.5m
A B

Solution:
Ax = − 13 F1 + 13 F2 + F3 (to the right) Ay = 300 N − 34 F1 − 32 F2 − 49 F3 (upwards)
Bx = − 23 F1 − 43 F2 − 2F3 (to the right) By = 34 F1 + 23 F2 + 49 F3 (upwards)

Exercise 7.4 - Man on a ladder

A man standing on a ladder exerts a force F on the ladder. Note that the member
AC is one piece, as well as the member CE. The distance between A and E is 3 m,
and between B and D is 1.5 m. The distance between B and G along the member AC
is 0.3 m. Determine the reaction forces at point A and E. Make use of the free body
diagrams that were constructed in Exercise 4.4.

G
B D
F

60° 60°
A E

Solution:
Ax = 0 Ay = 0.7F (upwards) Ey = 0.3F (upwards)

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Exercise 7.5 - Two disks attached to a cord

The two disks each have a mass of 20 kg are attached at their centers by an elastic
cord that has a stiffness of k = 2 kN/m. Determine the stretch of the cord when the
system is in equilibrium and the angle θ of the cord.

r l
θ
r
5 4
3 B

Solution:

Note: use a calculator to find the solution.

θ = arctan( 38 ) = 20.55◦ u= 558.7

2000 = 0.28 m

Exercise 7.6 - Toggle clamp

A toggle clamp is subjected to a force F at the handle. Determine the clamping
force acting at point E. Make use of the free body diagrams that were constructed in
Exercise 4.3.
√3 a a/2 1.5a

F
B C a/2
A 60° D
E a/2

√ Solution:
Ey = (4F )/(3 − 3) (upwards)

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Exercise 7.7 - Pump Jack

A counterweight, with its center of mass at G, causes a gravitational force of 3200N.
It is mounted on the pitman crank AB of the oil pumping unit. The motor supplies
a torque of M = 2250 Nm. Determine the force F when the system is in equilibrium.
Make use of the free body diagrams that were constructed in Exercise 4.5.
2m 3m

B D
C
30° E
G 30°
M
A 0.5m F
0.5m
√ Solution:
F = 1500 3 + 3200 N

Exercise 7.8 - Skid steer loader

The skid steer loader experiences a gravitational force of 12000 N with center of mass
at G1 . If there are stones in the loading bucket, with a gravitational force of 3000 N
and center of mass at G2 , determine the reaction forces of each of the wheels A and B
on the ground, at the pin E and the force in the hydraulic cylinder CD. Make use of
the free body diagrams that were constructed in Exercise 4.6
1.25m

30°
E
D
G2 C
G1

0.5m

A B
0.25m
1.5m 0.75m
Solution:
NA = 19500 N (upwards) N √B = 4500 N (upwards) FCD = −13200 N
Ex = 6600 3 N (to the left) Ey = 3600 N (upwards)

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8 Machines
Exercise 8.1 - Platform scale
The platform scale consists of a combination of third and first class levers so that
the load on one lever becomes the effort that moves the next lever. Through this
arrangement, a small weight can balance a massive object. Note that the horizontal bar
EG is one piece, as well as the horizontal bar between point C and the counterweight
S. If the mass of the counterweight S is 2 kg, determine the mass of the load L as a
function of the distance x that is required to maintain the balance.

100mm 150mm
250mm

H
E G
F
C D

A B
L

150mm 350mm x

Solution:
mL = 11.1(5 + 0.01x)

Exercise 8.2 - Engine hoist

A hoist supports a 200 kg engine as shown in the figure below. Determine the force in
the hydraulic cylinder CE as a function of the angle θ.

1250mm 350mm

G E
θ
D

850mm

200kg C

100° 550mm
A B

Solution:
FCE (θ) = −9700 cos(θ)

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Exercise 8.3 - Scissors lift

A scissor lift consists of two sets of cross members and two hydraulic cylinders, EF ,
symmetrically located on each side of the platform. Only one set (side view) is shown
for clarity. The platform experiences a gravitational load of 600 N at center of gravity
at G1 . The gravitational load of 1000 N at center of gravity at G2 , is centrally located
between each side of the platform. The length of BD is 4 m. Rollers are located at
point B and E. Determine the force in each of the hydraulic cylinders as a function
of the height h that is required for equilibrium.

0.8m 1.2m 2m
G2
G1

A B
h/2
C

h/2
D E F

√ Solution:
Ex,per cylinder = 711.3 · 16 − h2 /h (to the left)

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9 Distributed loads
Exercise 9.1 - Clamped beam
The figure below shows a beam that is subjected to a constant distributed load f . The
beam is clamped at point A. Determine the reaction forces at point A.
f

A B
2L

Solution:
Ax = 0
Ay = 2f L (upwards)
MA = 2f L2 (counter-clockwise)

Exercise 9.2 - Cone

The figure below shows a cone that is subjected to a distributed load that linearly
increases from 0 at the bottom to 3 kN at the top. The beam is clamped at point A.
Determine the reaction forces at point A.

3kN

3m

A
Solution:
Ax = 4.5 kN (to the left)
Ay = 0 (upwards)
MA = 9 kNm (counter-clockwise)

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Exercise 9.3 - Simply supported beam

The figure below shows a simply supported beam that  issubjected to a distributed
πx
load that is described by the function f (x) = f0 sin . Determine the reaction
2L
forces at point A and B. f(x)=fo sin (Nx/L)
f(x)

A B

2L

Solution:
Ax = 0
Ay = 2f0 L/π (upwards)
By = 2f0 L/π (upwards)

Exercise 9.4 - Simply supported beam 2

The figure below shows a simply supported beam that is subjected to a distributed
load that linearly increases from 0 at the left to f0 at L, then linearly decreases to 0
at 2L. Determine the reaction forces at point A and B.

f(x)

A B

2L

Solution:
Ax = 0
Ay = (1/2)f0 L (upwards)
By = (1/2)f0 L (upwards)

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Exercise 9.5 - Compound beam

The figure below shows a compound beam that is subjected to a constant distributed
load f = 115 N/m. The beam consists of bars AC and CD, which are connected by a
hinge at point C. The length L = 2 m. Determine the reaction forces.
f

A D
B C
L L L

Solution:
Ax = 0, Ay = 115 N (downwards), By = 690 N (upwards),
Cx = 0, Cy = 115 N, Dy = 115 N (upwards)

Exercise 9.6 - Hinged beam

The figure below shows a beam that is subjected to a constant distributed load f = 14
kN/m. The beam consists of bars AB and BC, which are connected by a hinge at
point B. The length L = 4 m. Determine the reaction forces.
f

C
A B
2L L

Solution:
Ax = 0, Ay = 140 kN (upwards), MA = 672 kNm (counter-clockwise),
Bx = 0, By = 28 kN, Cy = 28 kN (upwards)

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Exercise 9.7 - Warren truss

The figure below shows the Warren truss that is subjected to a constant distributed
load f kN/m. Determine the reaction forces at point A and C, and the truss forces
FAD , FBD , FBE , FCE and FDE .

L
D E
f L

C
A
B
2L

Solution:
Compression: FAx = 0 kN FAy = f L (upwards) FCy = f L (upwards)
√
Tension: FAD = FDE = FCE = −f L√3/3
FBD = FBE = f L 3/3

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10 Centroids
Exercise 10.1 - Centroid 1
Determine the centroid (x̄, ȳ) of the shaded area.
y

y = x3
1m

x
1m

Solution:
x̄ = 0.8 m
ȳ = 0.29 m

Exercise 10.2 - Centroid 2

Determine the centroid (x̄, ȳ) of the shaded area.
y

h 2
y= x
h b2

x
b

Solution:
x̄ = (3/4)b
ȳ = (3/10)h

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Exercise 10.3 - Centroid 3

Determine the centroid (x̄, ȳ) of the shaded area.
y

y 2 = 4x

4m
1 x2
y=
4

x
4m

Solution:
x̄ = 1.8 m
ȳ = 1.8 m

Exercise 10.4 - Sign board

The figure below shows a sign board, which is similar to the sign board in Exercise
3.6. The sign board is an isosceles triangle and has a mass of m = 1.5 kg. Determine
the reaction forces at point A.
0.6m
0.3m

Solution:
Ax = 0
Ay = 14.72 N (upwards)
MA = 7.36 Nm (clockwise)

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Exercise 10.5 - U-shape

Determine the centroid (x̄, ȳ) of the U-shape.
0.6m 0.6m

5m

2m

0.6m

3.2m
Solution:
x̄ = 1.6 m
ȳ = 2.13 m

Exercise 10.6 - L-shape

Determine the centroid (x̄, ȳ) of the L-shape.
0.6m

5m

0.6m

4m
Solution:
x̄ = 1.11 m
ȳ = 1.61 m

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Exercise 10.7 - Street light

Locate the center of gravity G(x̄, ȳ) of the streetlight. Neglect the thickness of each
segment. The mass per unit length of each segment is as follows: ρAB = 12 kg/m,
ρBC = 8 kg/m, ρCD = 5 kg/m and ρDE = 2 kg/m.
y
1m 1.5m

1m D E
1m 1m
C
G(x,y)
3m

4m

A x
Solution:
x̄ = 0.22 m
ȳ = 4.35 m

Exercise 10.8 - Hanging bicycle

The figure below shows a bicycle. The frame of the bicycle consists of 6 members with
a length of 3 m and a density of 2 kg/m. All relevant angles are 60◦ . The thickness
of the members can be neglected, as well as the mass of the saddle, steer and wheels.
If we take point A as the origin, determine the center of gravity G(x̄, ȳ) at which the
hoisting hook must be attached, such that the bicycle does not rotate and fall off when
it is lifted.

B
3m C

E
A D

3m
Solution:
x̄ = 2.75 m
ȳ = 1.30 m

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Exercise 10.9 - Unloading truck

Consider the unloading truck below. Determine the reaction forces in A and beam BC
when θ = 60◦

0.8
m
1.5
m

2m
1.5
m
0.2
m

B
θ
C A

note: A calculator may be used for this exercise.

Solution:
FBC = 0.047mg
Ax = 0.0235mg (to the right)
Ay = 1.0407mg (upwards)

42
11 Internal loads
Exercise 11.1 - Ball on beam
The figure below shows a ball that is attached to a beam. The ball has a mass m.
Determine the internal normal force N (y) in the beam between A and B.

4L

Solution:
N (y) = −mg

Exercise 11.2 - Clamped beam

The figure below shows a beam that clamped at point A and subjected to a distributed
load over its entire length that is described by the function f (x) = (f0 x2 )/(L2 ). De-
termine the internal normal force N (x).
f(x)

A B
3L

Solution:
N (x) = 9f0 L − (f0 x3 )/(3L2 )

Exercise 11.3 - Simply supported beam

The figure below shows a simply supported beam that is subjected to two external
forces. Determine the internal loads S(x) and M (x).

3N 9N
A B

L L L

 Solution:
5

 0≤x<L
S(x) = 2 L ≤ x < 2L

−7

2L ≤ x < 3L

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
5x

 0≤x<L
M (x) = 2x + 3L L ≤ x < 2L

−7x + 21L

2L ≤ x < 3L

Exercise 11.4 - Hinged beam

The figure below shows a beam that is subjected to a constant distributed load f = 9
kN/m. The beam consists of bars AB and BC, which are connected by a hinge at
point B. Determine the shear force S(x) and bending moment M (x) for the beam.
Draw the results in a graph.
f

C
A B
3m 1m

Solution:
S(x) = 31.5 − 9x
M (x) = −54 + 31.5x − 4.5x2

Exercise 11.5 - Simply supported beam 2

The figure below shows a simply supported beam that is subjected to a distributed
πx
load that is described by the function f (x) = f0 sin( 6L ). Determine the shear force
S(x) and bending moment M (x) for the beam. Draw the results in a graph.
f(x)

A B

6L

Solution:
S(x) = (6f0 L)/(π) cos ((πx)/(6L))
M (x) = (36f0 L2 )/(π 2 ) sin ((πx)/(6L))

Exercise 11.6 - Clamped beam 2

The figure below shows a beam that is clamped at point A. It is subjected to a
distributed load that increases from 0 at point A to f0 at x = 2L. There is also an
external force at x = 3L and an external moment at x = 4L. Determine the shear
force S(x) and bending moment M (x) for the beam. Draw the results in a graph.

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F
f(x)

M
A
2L L L

 Solution:
2
F + f0 L − (f0 )/(4L)x 0 ≤ x < 2L


S(x) = F 2L ≤ x < 3L

3L ≤ x < 4L

0

2 3
−M − 3F L − (4)/(3)f0 L − (f0 )(12L)x + F x + f0 Lx

 0 ≤ x < 2L
M (x) = −M − 3F L + F x 2L ≤ x < 3L

−M

3L ≤ x < 4L

Exercise 11.7 - Simply supported beam 3

The figure below shows a simply supported beam that is subjected to two external
forces. Draw the shear force S(x) and bending moment M (x) without explicitly deriv-
ing the function, but by determining S(x) and M (x) at the locations of external loads,
and reasoning what the shape of the functions in the intermediate sections should be.

3N 9N
A B

L L L

Exercise 11.8 - Diving board

The figure below shows a simplified representation of a diving board. The diving
board is subjected to a constant distributed load f = 300 N/m. The length L = 1 m.
Draw the shear force S(x) and bending moment M (x) without explicitly deriving the
function, but by determining S(x) and M (x) at the locations of external loads, and
reasoning what the shape of the functions in the intermediate sections should be.
f

Determine the shear force and (bending)

A
moment diagrams for the beam: B
1.5L 3L

Exercise 11.9 - Simply supported beam 4

The figure below shows a simply supported beam that is subjected to a constant
distributed load f = 25 N/m. There is also an external force at point B. The length
L = 1 m. Draw the shear force S(x) and bending moment M (x) without explicitly
deriving the function, but by determining S(x) and M (x) at the locations of external

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loads, and reasoning what the shape of the functions in the intermediate sections should
be.
f

A C
B
50N
2L 2L

Exercise 11.10 - Simply supported beam 5

The figure below shows a simply supported beam that is subjected to a constant
distributed load f = 1.5 N/m at the right. There is also an external moment M = 6
Nm at point B. The length L = 38 m. Determine the shear force S(x) and bending
moment M (x) for the beam. Draw the results in a graph. Verify that the relations
between f (x), S(x) and M (x) are correct.
f

M
A
B C
L L L

 Solution:
−2.125 0≤x<L


S(x) = −2.125 L ≤ x < 2L

−1.5x + 12

2L ≤ x < 3L

−2.125x 0≤x<L


M (x) = −2.125x + 6 L ≤ x < 2L

−0.75x2 + 12x − 48

2L ≤ x < 3L

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12 Friction

Exercise 12.1 - Crate on a hill

Determine the minimum horizontal force P required to hold the crate from sliding
down the plane. The crate has a mass of m kg and the coefficient of static friction
between the crate and the plane is µs = 0.5.

30°

√ Solution:
P = mg(5 3 − 8)/11

Exercise 12.2 - Crate on a hill 2

Determine the minimum force P required to push the crate up the plane. The crate
has a mass of m and the coefficient of static friction between the crate and the plan is
µs = 0.25

30°

√ Solution:
P = mg(17 3 + 16)/47

Exercise 12.3 - Hanging weight

If the coefficient of static friction at A is µs = 0.4 and the collar at B is smooth, so it
only exerts a horizontal force on the piper, determine the minimum distance x so that
the bracket can support the cylinder of any mass without slipping. Neglect the mass
of the bracket.

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100mm
x

B
C
200mm
A
m

Solution:
x = 500 mm

Exercise 12.4 - Friction between blocks

If the coefficient of static friction at all contacting surfaces is µs , determine the incli-
nation θ at which the identical blocks, each of mass m, begin to slide.

B
θ

Solution:
θ = arctan(5µs )

Exercise 12.5 - Locked spring

If the spring is compressed 60 mm and the coefficient of static friction between the
tapered stub S and the slider A is µAS = 0.5, determine the horizontal force P needed
to move the slider forward. The stub is free to move without friction with the fixed
collar C. The coefficient of static friction between A and surface B is µAB = 0.4.
Neglect the weights of the slider and stub.

k =300 N/m C

30°
P A

Solution:

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√
P = 18(0.4 + (5 3 + 8)/11) N

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