What are the Internal Forces at Point C in a Distributed Load System?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on determining the internal forces at point C in a distributed load system, specifically addressing the tension in the cable. The user presents two equations to calculate tension, with discrepancies noted between their results and a provided solution. Clarifications are sought regarding the application of tension over a pulley and the distribution of forces in the system. The importance of drawing a free body diagram is emphasized to accurately visualize the forces and moments at play. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the need for careful analysis of equilibrium equations and the mechanics of tension transfer in the system.
Isaac Reed
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Homework Statement


upload_2015-4-17_22-32-56.png

find internal normal, shear, and moment forces at point C, P=8kn

The Attempt at a Solution


for the most part I can solve this entire question but looking at the solution for it one of my equations is different and I cannot figure out why.
my equation for finding T(tension in cable)
ΣMa=0: 8(2.25)-T(.75/.96)=0
gives T=28.84kN

equation 2
ΣMa=0: -T(0.6)+8(2.25)=0 ←?
gives T=30.00kN
 
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I don't see where your 1st equation comes from.

2nd equation looks right.
 
but why exactly the T(0.6) in 2nd equation
 
Isn't it the lever arm 0.5m+0.1m?
 
how does all of the tension in the cable get transmitted to the lever arm over the pulley?
 
Just as anything else. If the pulley is not rotating then the tension in the cable is constant for its entire length.
 
Isaac Reed said:
how does all of the tension in the cable get transmitted to the lever arm over the pulley?
You didn't respond to paisiello2 comment in post 2, but it appears you tried to treat this as a truss at the joint where load P is applied by isolating the joint and assuming all the vert applied load is taken by the cable. But some of it is taken in shear by the lower member. Trust your equilibrium equations when determining support reactions from externally applied loads.
 
Ahhhhhhh OK because the cable is only in the x direction after it goes over the pulley all of its y components are transferred to the beam. So if I finish my first equation I end up with.

ΣM=0: 8(2.25)-T(cos33.7)(2.25)+T(cos33.7)(1.5)=0
And I get T=30
 
Not sure what you did there but if you draw a proper free body diagram you will see directly that the 2nd equation in your OP is the most straight forward.
 
  • #10
It is clearly the most straiforward. But how is the component of the tension at the end of the beam not included in equation?
 
  • #11
Draw a free body diagram. The rope is only cut at one location. The rest is internal.
 
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