Free body diagram : Compression and Tension

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around analyzing the forces acting on light rods P, Q, R, and S attached to a wall, specifically focusing on whether these rods are under tension or compression due to a force W. Participants are asked to utilize free body diagrams (FBD) for clarification.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the concept of resolving force W and its implications on the rods. Questions arise about the equilibrium conditions at node A and the necessity of drawing a free body diagram to analyze the forces. There is also a suggestion to consider the interaction of forces at different points affecting the rods.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of how to analyze the forces acting on the rods. Some guidance has been offered regarding the importance of equilibrium conditions and the use of free body diagrams, but there is no explicit consensus on the correct approach yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of a homework problem, which may limit the information available and the assumptions that can be made about the system. The nature of the force W and its application point are also under consideration.

alchemphy
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P, Q, R, S are light rods attached to the wall with a force W acting at that point in the figure.
Please explain whether Compression or Tension is acting on them respectively by using Free body diagram and proper explanation.


Can I resolve W in this way so that we have a force in the direction of P and parellel to R??
Following that, we know that P is under tension and R is under compression.


Thanks.
 

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What do you mean by "resolve W"? It is sufficient to look at node A and it's equilibrium conditions.
 
Since you are talking about the FBD, I think you have to draw out a FBD with reaction force at fixed support on the wall in order to explain whether is tension or compression of each members. Not 100% sure though.
 
alchemphy said:
P, Q, R, S are light rods attached to the wall with a force W acting at that point in the figure.
Please explain whether Compression or Tension is acting on them respectively by using Free body diagram and proper explanation.


Can I resolve W in this way so that we have a force in the direction of P and parellel to R??
Following that, we know that P is under tension and R is under compression.


Thanks.

I ain't know if I am right, but I think thinking as if force is fluid and can be shared might help. Like Point B is pushing the rod R upwards, and pulling the rod Q downwards. Point A pulls the rod P towards right, and the point B; this one's little complex. Like it starts from the rod R. The rod R pushes the point B downward, and thus point B compresses the rod S, and pulls the rod Q..

Anyhow, I think you may resolve the problem if try this way
 

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