Help identifying a zero-force member

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To identify a zero-force member at joint CK, it's important to analyze the forces acting on the joint, especially since there are four members involved. The general rules for zero-force members apply primarily when there are two or three members at a joint, making this case more complex. A systematic approach involves examining the equilibrium of forces at joints C and K, where the sum of vertical and horizontal forces should equal zero. If no external loads are acting on the joint and the remaining members do not contribute to the force balance, then the member in question can be identified as a zero-force member. Understanding the specific force interactions at the joint is crucial for proving the member's status.
Saladsamurai
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So I know the that the general rule for identifying a zero force member is that if two members form a joint and no external loading or reaction forces are applied to the joint then the members must be zero force members.

And if three members form a joint for which two are collinear, then the 3rd is zero force provided there is no external/reaction forces at the joint.

BUT in the following case how would one know that the joint at member CK is zero force?
Picture1-1.png

There are four members at the joint, so neither general rule can be applied.

I mean, what would "tip me off"? And how would I prove it is zero force?
 
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Wow. This must be a tough one. Anyway. Looking at Joint K we would have \sum F_y=F_{kb}_y+f_{ck}=0 so this doesn't tell me anything. Looking at joint C we would have F_{ck}+4+F_{cj}_y=0. . . great, now what?. . . hmmm let me think.

Any ideas?
 
god damnit
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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