Free Body Diagram Help: Homework Equations and Attempts

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the identification and labeling of reaction forces in a free body diagram (FBD) related to a beam structure. Participants explore the application of equilibrium equations and the inclusion of all forces acting on a joint, focusing on the forces at points A and B.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about whether the forces in the FBD are reaction forces and seeks advice on labeling them.
  • Another participant asserts that the reaction force at point A is upwards.
  • A different participant emphasizes the necessity of including all forces acting on joint B and suggests breaking down external forces into their components.
  • Another participant questions the assumption of an upward force at A, arguing that if the weight of the beam is negligible, there cannot be an upward force, indicating a focus on axial forces only.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the nature of the forces at point A, with differing views on whether an upward reaction force exists and the implications of the beam's weight.

Contextual Notes

There is an unresolved discussion regarding the assumptions about the weight of the beam and its impact on the reaction forces, as well as the completeness of the FBD in representing all acting forces.

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Homework Statement



I feel that I am a bit fuzzy whether things are reaction forces. In the diagram I see there is a beam holding point B, and there are 3 forces: Cable BC, 500N, and 780N.

My professor wrote:
Ask yourself: is the beam holding the point from moving up or down, right or left? If so you will need to include the appropriate reaction forces in your FBD.

To me, it is, as the beam is not hinged. Unfortunately I am not quite sure how to handle how to label the reaction force. Any advice would be great!

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



My FBD is attached.
 

Attachments

  • Diagram.jpg
    Diagram.jpg
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  • FBD.jpg
    FBD.jpg
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At A, the reaction force is Upwards
 
When you draw a FBD of joint B, you must include ALL forces, both external and internal, acting on the joint. You neglected to include the force of the beam acting on the joint. You should also break down the applied external forces at B into their x and y components.

It is often best to find the reaction forces at A and C first, by using the 3 equilibrium equations and noting that the reaction force at C must be directed along the cable direction BC.
 
Endorser said:
At A, the reaction force is Upwards
I don't see any reference to the weight of the beam, so I assume it is negligible, in which case there cannot be any upward force at A, since this is a pure truss with axial tensile or compressive forces only, in the cable and beam.
 

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