Tension or Compression: Determining the Forces on a Hinged Support Point

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the forces acting on two light rigid rods, P and Q, which are hinged to a wall and support a weight W. The focus is on identifying which rod is in tension and which is in compression within the context of static equilibrium.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the definitions of compression and tension, with some seeking clarification on the concepts. There are requests for hints and guidance on how to approach the problem, indicating uncertainty in applying static equilibrium principles.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants expressing confusion and seeking hints to progress. Some guidance has been offered regarding the application of Newton's second law to the point where the rods meet, but no consensus or clear direction has emerged yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the amount of direct assistance they can receive. There is a focus on understanding the forces involved without providing complete solutions.

tonald
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The figure shows a weight W supported by two light rigid rods P and Q. The rods are smoothly hinged to the wall and mounted in the same vertical plane. Which rod is in compression , is in tension?
 

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Show what you've done so far and where you got stuck.
 
I can't think anything...
Actually, compression means the force towards the wall?
Can you give me some hints to start with the question...
 
"Compression" means that there's an inward force pushing on the ends of the rod; "tension" means there's an outward force on the rod.

This is a problem in static equilibrium.
 
Can you show me how to solve this question...
I really can't solve it
or please give me some hints to guide me to finish it ,thanks...
 
Welcome to PF!

tonald said:
The figure shows a weight W supported by two light rigid rods P and Q. The rods are smoothly hinged to the wall and mounted in the same vertical plane. Which rod is in compression , is in tension?

Hi tonald! Welcome to PF! :smile:

Hint: use good ol' Newton's second law on the peg (or whatever it is) where the two rods meet …

it isn't moving, and there are three forces on it, so they … ? :smile:
 

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