Does a Beam's Free End Always Have Zero Shear Force and Bending Moment?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the conditions under which a beam's free end experiences shear force, bending moment, and curvature, particularly in relation to applied loads. It includes considerations of both theoretical and practical aspects of beam mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks confirmation about whether a beam's free end always has zero shear force, bending moment, and curvature when no loads are applied.
  • Another participant argues that if a concentrated force or couple is applied at the free end, the shear, moment, and curvature will be non-zero.
  • A later reply acknowledges the second participant's point and clarifies that if no loads are applied at the free end, the initial claim holds true.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the conditions at the free end depend on whether external loads are applied, indicating a nuanced understanding rather than a consensus on a singular rule.

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Homework Statement



Just need some quick confirmation.

For a beam which has a load applied to it, will its free end always have a shear force, bending moment and curvature of zero?
 
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Not necessarily. If the free end of a beam has a concentrated force or a couple applied there, then the shear, moment, and curvature of the beam will be non-zero.
 
Ahh I didn't think of that, thank you.

But if there wasn't anything applied at free-end, then what I stated in my first post is true?
 
Yes.
 

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