Statically determinate beam with three reaction unknowns If a beam is supported such that there are exactly three independent reaction components, which equilibrium equations are sufficient to determine them?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: ∑H = 0; ∑V = 0; ∑M = 0

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
A planar, statically determinate problem can be solved using only the equations of static equilibrium. For beams in the plane, there are three independent equations available.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Planar system (2D), rigid body equilibrium.
  • No additional redundants or internal releases.
  • Supports provide exactly three independent reaction components in total.


Concept / Approach:
The independent equilibrium equations in a plane are:
∑H = 0∑V = 0∑M = 0These three equations can determine three unknown reaction components if the structure is statically determinate.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Count unknown reactions = 3.Provide three independent equations of equilibrium.Solve the linear system to obtain reactions.


Verification / Alternative check:
If more than three unknowns exist, the structure is statically indeterminate to that degree and requires compatibility (deformations) to solve.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Options a, b: insufficient equations.
  • Option c: duplicates ∑H and omits the others.
  • Option e: omits ∑V = 0; system remains underdetermined.


Common Pitfalls:
Counting dependent reaction components or missing the moment equation about a convenient point.



Final Answer:
∑H = 0; ∑V = 0; ∑M = 0

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