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Chapter 2

Three Equations of Equilibrium and Three Unknown Support Reactions

Classification of Structures Based on Constraints
Structure

Number
of Unknowns

Number
of Equations

Statical Condition

Statically determinate (called a simple

beam)

Statically indeterminate to the second

degree (called a continuous beam)

Unstable

Statically determinate (called a

cantilever)

Statically determinate (called an

overhang beam)

Statically indeterminate to the first

degree (called a propped beam)

Statically indeterminate to the third

degree (called a fixed-ended beam)

Statically determinate (see Example

Problem 3.8)

Unstable (improperly constrained)

Statically indeterminate to the third

degree

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.