CHAPTER II: ANALYSIS OF STATICALLY DETERMINATE STRUCTURES

LECTURE 4 Part 2: Analysis of Statically Determinate Beams

4.2.1 Relationship between load, shear, and bending moment.
4.2.2 Shear and Moment Diagrams of Statically Determinate Beams.

LEARNING OUTCOMES (LOs):

LO 8: Analyze and solve the external reactions and internal stress resultants of statically
determinate beams applying the relationship between load, shear, and bending moment.
LO 9: Draw shear and moment diagrams of statically determinate beams applying
principle of equations and area.

DISCUSSION/PRESENTATION OF THE LESSON:

4.2.1 Relationship between Load, Shear, and Bending Moment

In any cross section of a loaded beam, there is differential relationships between the
load, shear, and bending moment that are helpful in constructing the shear and bending
moment curves.
Considering portion of a beam of any type subjected to transverse loading and moment
loading as shown in figure 27. To investigate and analyze the differential relationships between
load, shear, and bending moment in a beam, classifying the beam segments in the following
way is useful: (1) segment under no load, (2) segment under concentrated load, (3) Segment
under distributed load, and (4) Segment under moment load.

Figure 27

1. Segment under no load, (segment “a” in figure 27). Considering a cut element within
segment “a” with distance of 𝑑𝑥 as shown in figure 28. In the left face of the cut element,
consider 𝑉𝑥 and 𝑀𝑥 as the shear and bending moment acting, respectively. On the right
face of the cut element, 𝑉𝑥 + 𝑑𝑉𝑥 is the shear acting in that point and 𝑀𝑥 + 𝑑𝑀𝑥 is the
bending moment acting in that point, in which 𝑑𝑉𝑥 and 𝑑𝑀𝑥 are changes of shear and
moment in a length of 𝑑𝑥. Assuming that 𝑥 increases from left to right. Since the cut
element is in equilibrium;
(+ ↑ ) ∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0; 𝑉𝑥 − (𝑉𝑥 + 𝑑𝑉𝑥 ) = 0
solving for 𝑑𝑉𝑥 : 𝑑𝑉𝑥 = 0
then 𝑉𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 equation 4-1

Figure 28

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Structural Theory 43
 (+ ↻) ∑ 𝑀𝑎 = 0; 𝑀𝑥 + (𝑉𝑥 )(𝑑𝑥) − (𝑀𝑥 + 𝑑𝑀𝑥 ) = 0

simplify: 𝑉𝑥 (𝑑𝑥) − 𝑑𝑀𝑥 = 0

𝑑𝑀𝑥 𝑑𝑀𝑥
solve for : = 𝑉𝑥
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

from equation 4-1: 𝑉𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡

𝑑𝑀𝑥
then, = 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 equation 4-2
𝑑𝑥

We deduced the following:

• Equation 4-1 states that no change of shear takes place.
• Equation 4-2 states that the rate of change of bending moment at any
point with respect to 𝑥 is constant.

2. Segment under concentrated load, (segment “c” in figure 27). A cut element in figure 29
from segment “c” in figure 27, shows an element subjected to a concentrated load, 𝑃.
Assuming this concentrated load, 𝑃, is acting in a point. As the distance between two
adjacent sections becomes infinitesimal, there will be no moment difference between the
sections to the immediate left of P and to the immediate right of P. However, an abrupt
change in the shear force equal to P between the two sections takes place.

(+ ↑ ) ∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0; 𝑉𝑥 − 𝑃 − 𝑉′𝑥 = 0
solving for 𝑉′𝑥 : 𝑉′𝑥 = 𝑉𝑥 − 𝑃 equation 4-3

Figure 29

𝑑𝑀𝑥
Accordingly, there will be an abrupt change in the derivative at the point of
𝑑𝑥
application of concentrated load.

3. Segment under distributed load, (segment “b” in figure 27). Consider a cut element
subjected to a distributed load cut out by two adjacent cross sections with distance 𝑑𝑥
apart, as shown in figure 30.

Figure 30

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Structural Theory 44
 From (+ ↑ ) ∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0; 𝑉𝑥 − (𝑉𝑥 + 𝑑𝑉𝑥 ) − 𝑤𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 0

simplify and solve for 𝑑𝑉𝑥 : 𝑑𝑉𝑥 = − 𝑤𝑥 𝑑𝑥

𝑑𝑉𝑥
then, = −𝑤𝑥 equation 4-4
𝑑𝑥

From (+ ↻) ∑ 𝑀𝑎 = 0; 𝑀𝑥 + (𝑉𝑥 )(𝑑𝑥) − (𝑀𝑥 + 𝑑𝑀𝑥 ) − 𝑤𝑥 𝑑𝑥(𝑑𝑥/2) = 0

𝑑𝑀𝑥
Neglecting the small term 𝑤𝑥 𝑑𝑥(𝑑𝑥/2), simplify, and solve for :
𝑑𝑥

𝑑𝑀𝑥
= 𝑉𝑥 equation 4-5
𝑑𝑥

We deduced the following:

• Equation 4-4 states that the rate of change of shear with respect to 𝑥 at
any point is equal to the intensity of the load at that point but with the
opposite sign.
• Equation 4-5 states that the rate of change of bending moment at any
point with respect to 𝑥 is equal to the shear force at that point.

4. Segment under moment load, (segment “d” in figure 27). Consider figure 31, a cut
element is subjected to a couple 𝑀, assumed to be acting at a point within 𝑑𝑥. As the
distance between the two adjacent sections becomes infinitesimal, there will be no shear
difference between the sections to the immediate left of 𝑀 and to the immediate right of
𝑀. However, there will be an abrupt change of moment equal to 𝑀 between the two
sections.

Figure 31

(+ ↻) ∑ 𝑀𝑜 = 0; 𝑀𝑥 − 𝑀 − 𝑀′𝑥 = 0

solving for 𝑀′𝑥 : 𝑀′𝑥 = 𝑀𝑥 − 𝑀 equation 4-6

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Structural Theory 45
 Construction of the shear and moment diagrams of beam is based on the differential
relationships previously stated.

𝑑𝑉
A. The equation 𝑥 = −𝑤𝑥 (equation 4-4) implies that the slope of the shear curve at any
𝑑𝑥
point is equal to the negative value of the ordinate of load diagram applied to the beam
at that point. There are cases to be noted:
1. For a segment under no load, the slope of the shear curve is zero (parallel to the
beam axis). Therefore, the shear curve is a line parallel to the beam axis.
2. For a segment under a uniform load of intensity 𝑤, the slope of the shear curve is
constant. Therefore, the shear curve is a sloping line.
3. At a point of concentrated load, the intensity of the load is infinite, and the slope of
the shear curve will thus be infinite (vertical to the beam axis). There will be a
discontinuity in the shear curve, and a change process of shear equal to the applied
force occurs between the two sides of the loaded point.
4. Under distributed load the change in shear between two cross sections a differential
distance 𝑑𝑥 apart is
𝑑𝑉𝑥 = −𝑤𝑥 𝑑𝑥

𝑏 𝑏
Integrate both side of the equation: ∫𝑎 𝑉𝑥 = − ∫𝑎 𝑤𝑥 𝑑𝑥

Thus, the difference in the ordinates of the shear curve between any two points 𝑎 and
𝑏 is given by
𝑏
𝑉𝑏 − 𝑉𝑎 = − ∫𝑎 𝑤𝑥 𝑑𝑥

𝑉𝑏 − 𝑉𝑎 = −(𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑜𝑓 𝑙𝑜𝑎𝑑 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑏𝑒𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝑎 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑏) equation 4-7

Suppose that there are additional concentrated forces, ∑ 𝑃 acting between 𝑎 and 𝑏.
The result of the shear difference between the two points must include the effect due
to ∑ 𝑃,

𝑏
𝑉𝑏 − 𝑉𝑎 = − ∫ 𝑤𝑥 𝑑𝑥 − ∑ 𝑃
𝑎
𝑉𝑏 − 𝑉𝑎 = −(𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑜𝑓 𝑙𝑜𝑎𝑑 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑏𝑒𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝑎 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑏 + ∑ 𝑃 ) equation 4-8

in which ∑ 𝑃 has been assumed to act downward.

𝑑𝑀
B. From the equation 𝑥 = 𝑉𝑥 (equation 4-5), the slope of the bending moment curve at
𝑑𝑥
any point equals to the ordinate of shear curve at that point. The following are noted:
1. If the shear is constant in a portion of the beam, the bending moment curve will be
a straight line in that portion.
2. If the shear varies in any manner in a portion of the beam, the bending moment
curve will be a curved line.
3. At a point where a concentrated force acts there will be an abrupt change in the
ordinate of shear curve and, therefore, an abrupt change in the slope of the bending
moment curve at the point. In fact, the moment curve will have two different slopes
at that point.
4. Maximum and minimum bending moments occur at the points where a shear curve
goes through the x-axis (at zero shear). The maximum where shear changes from
positive (at the left) to negative (at the right); the minimum in the reverse manner.
5. For a concentrated force system, the maximum bending moment must occur under
a certain concentrated force, since change of shear from positive to negative must
occur at a certain point where a concentrated force is applied.
6. Under transverse loading the change in bending moment between two cross sections
a differential distance 𝑑𝑥 apart is given by
𝑑𝑀𝑥 = 𝑉𝑥 𝑑𝑥

𝑏 𝑏
Integrate both side of the equation: ∫𝑎 𝑀𝑥 = ∫𝑎 𝑉𝑥 𝑑𝑥

Therefore, the difference in the ordinates of the bending moment curve between any
two points 𝑎 and 𝑏 is given by

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Structural Theory 46
 𝑏
𝑀𝑏 − 𝑀𝑎 = ∫𝑎 𝑉𝑥 𝑑𝑥

𝑀𝑏 − 𝑀𝑎 = (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑜𝑓𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑏𝑒𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝑎 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑏) equation 4-9

If there are external moments ∑ 𝑀 acting between 𝑎 and 𝑏, then the result of the
moment difference between the two points must include the effect due to these
moments:
𝑏
𝑀𝑏 − 𝑀𝑎 = ∫ 𝑉𝑥 𝑑𝑥 − ∑ 𝑀
𝑎
𝑀𝑏 − 𝑀𝑎 = (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑜𝑓 𝑙𝑜𝑎𝑑 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑏𝑒𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝑎 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑏 + ∑ 𝑀) equation 4-10

in which ∑ 𝑀 has been assumed to act in a counterclockwise direction.

4.2.2 Shear and Moment Diagrams of Statically Determinate Beams

Procedure for Analysis

The following procedure provides a method for constructing the shear and
bending moment diagrams for a beam using equations 4-1 through 4-10.

Support Reactions
1. Determine the support reactions and resolve the forces acting on the beam
into components which are perpendicular and parallel to the beam’s axis.

Shear Diagram
1. Establish the 𝑉 and 𝑥 axes and plot the values of the shear at the two ends of
the beam.
𝑑𝑉
2. Since = −𝑤𝑥 , the slope of the shear diagram at any point is equal to the
𝑑𝑥
intensity of the distributed loading at the point. Note: all forces upward are
positive, and all forces downward are negative.
3. If a numerical value of the shear is to be determined at the point, one can find
this value either by using the method of sections or by using equation 4-7,
which states that the change in the shear force is equal to the area under the
distributed loading diagram.
4. Since 𝑤𝑥 is integrated to obtain shear 𝑉, if 𝑤𝑥 is a curve of degree 𝑛, then 𝑉𝑥
will be a curve of degree 𝑛 + 1.

Bending Moment Diagram

1. Establish the 𝑀 and 𝑥 axes and plot the values of the moment at the ends of
the beams.
𝑑𝑀
2. Since = 𝑉𝑥 , the slope of the bending moment diagram at any point is equal
𝑑𝑥
to the intensity of the shear at the point.
𝑑𝑀
3. At the point where the shear is zero, = 0, and therefore, this may be a point
𝑑𝑥
of maximum or minimum bending moment.
4. If a numerical value of the moment is to be determined at the point, one can
find this value either by using the method of sections or by using equation 4-
9, which states that the change in the bending moment is equal to the area
under the shear diagram.
5. Since 𝑉𝑥 is integrated to obtain bending moment 𝑀, if 𝑉𝑥 is a curve of degree
𝑛, then 𝑀𝑥 will be a curve of degree 𝑛 + 1.

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Structural Theory 47
 The following examples will serve to illustrate the construction of shear and
bending moment diagrams of statically determinate beam. It should be noted that some
useful techniques and principles will introduce within the solutions.

Example I: Draw the shear and bending moment diagrams of the given beam loaded as shown.

Solution:
1. Solve for the support reactions at points B and D.

+↻ ∑ 𝑀𝐷 = 0; 𝑅𝐵 (6) − 10(8) − 18(4) − 3(8)(2) = 0

200
𝑅𝐵 = = 33.33 𝐾𝑁
6

+↺ ∑ 𝑀𝐵 = 0; 𝑅𝐷 (6) + 10(2) − 18(2) − 3(8)(4) = 0

112
𝑅𝐷 = = 18.67 𝐾𝑁
6

2. Draw the load diagram, indicating the support reactions.

3. Draw the shear diagram based on the load diagram. Use the relationships discussed
in lecture 4.2.1.
Note: Sketch the shear diagram starting from left to the right of the beam, all
downward forces are negative and all upward forces are positive. Don’t include
external couple or moment in the beam in constructing the shear diagram.

3.1 Start with the shear to the left of point A, 𝑉𝐴(𝐿𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 0; since no load to the left of
point A. The shear to the right of point A, 𝑉𝐴(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐴(𝐿𝑒𝑓𝑡) − 10 = 0 − 10 = −10 𝐾𝑁.

The segment between A and B is under segment with no load, thus, the slope of the
shear curve or diagram is zero or parallel to the beam axis (refer to item A no. 1)

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Structural Theory 48
 3.2 At point B, the shear to the left of point B, 𝑉𝐵(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑉𝐴(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = −10 𝐾𝑁. Shear to
the right of point B, 𝑉𝐵(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐵(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) + 𝑅𝐵 = −10 + 33.33 = 23.33 𝐾𝑁

3.3 Segment BC is under uniform load of intensity, 𝑤 = 3 𝐾𝑁/𝑚, the slope of the
shear curve is constant, hence, the shear curve is sloping line (refer to item A no.
2).
The shear to the left of point C, 𝑉𝐶(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑉𝐵(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) − 𝑤(𝑥𝐵𝐶 ) = 23.33 − 3(2) = 17.33 𝐾𝑁.
The shear to the right of point C, 𝑉𝐶(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐶(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) − 18 = 17.33 − 18 = −0.67 𝐾𝑁.

3.4 Segment CD is under uniform load of intensity, 𝑤 = 3 𝐾𝑁/𝑚, the slope of the
shear curve is constant, hence, the shear curve is sloping line (refer to item A no.
2).
The shear to the left of point D, 𝑉𝐷(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑉𝐶(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) − 𝑤(𝑥𝐶𝐷 ) = −0.67 − 3(4) =
−12.67 𝐾𝑁.
The shear to the right of point D, 𝑉𝐷(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐷(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) + 𝑅𝐷 = −12.67 + 18.67 = 6 𝐾𝑁.

3.5 Segment DE is under uniform load of intensity, 𝑤 = 3 𝐾𝑁/𝑚, the slope of the
shear curve is constant, hence, the shear curve is sloping line (refer to item A no.
2).
The shear to the left of point E, 𝑉𝐸(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑉𝐷(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) − 𝑤(𝑥𝐷𝐸 ) = 6 − 3(2) = 0
Note: The shear diagram starts with zero and ends with zero shear.

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Structural Theory 49
 4. Draw the bending moment diagram based on the shear diagram. Also applying the
principles discussed in lecture 4.2.1
Note: Sketch the bending moment diagram starting from left to the right of the beam,
using the area of the shear diagram. In constructing the bending moment diagram,
include external couple/s or moment/s in the beam if there is/are acting in the given
beam.
Note: For this example, no external couple or moment acting in the given beam.

4.1 Compute the areas of the shear diagram per segment.

For segment AB: 𝐴𝐴𝐵 = (10)(2) = 20

23.33+17.33
For segment BC: 𝐴𝐵𝐶 = ( ) (2) = 40.66
2
0.67+12.67
For segment CD: 𝐴𝐶𝐷 = ( ) (4) = 26.68
2
1
For segment DE: 𝐴𝐷𝐸 = (6)(2) = 6
2

4.2 At points A and B, the moment is equal to zero, 𝑀𝐴 = 0

Moment at point B, 𝑀𝐵 = 𝑀𝐴 ± (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑎𝑡 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐴𝐵)
𝑀𝐵 = 0 − 20 = −20 𝐾𝑁 − 𝑚
Note: to connect moments A and B in the bending moment diagram, it is based in
the shear diagram, the shear at segment AB is constant, therefore, in the bending
moment diagram the slope of the curve is constant. In the shear diagram segment
AB is 0 degree, therefore, at the bending moment diagram it is 1st degree or a line
with constant slope.

4.3 At point C
Moment at point C, 𝑀𝐶 = 𝑀𝐵 ± (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑎𝑡 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐵𝐶)
𝑀𝐶 = −20 + 40.66 = 20.66 𝐾𝑁 − 𝑚

Note: to connect moments B and C in the bending moment diagram, it is based in

the shear diagram, the segment BC in the shear diagram is 1st degree, therefore,
in the bending moment diagram the curve is 2nd degree. The shear at segment BC
is positive decreasing, therefore, the slope of curve in the bending moment diagram
is also positive decreasing (concave downward-left).
slope is positive decreasing from left to right,
2nd degree curve

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Structural Theory 50
 4.4 At point D
Moment at point D, 𝑀𝐷 = 𝑀𝐶 ± (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑎𝑡 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐶𝐷)
𝑀𝐶 = 20.66 − 26.68 = −6.02 𝐾𝑁 − 𝑚 say -6 KN-m

Note: to connect moments C and D in the bending moment diagram, it is based in

the shear diagram, the segment CD in the shear diagram is 1st degree, therefore,
in the bending moment diagram the curve is 2nd degree. The shear at segment CD
is negative increasing, therefore, the slope of curve in the bending moment diagram
is negative increasing (concave downward-right).

slope is negative increasing from left to right,

2nd degree curve

4.5 At point E
Moment at point E, 𝑀𝐸 = 𝑀𝐷 ± (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑎𝑡 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐷𝐸)
𝑀𝐸 = −6 + 6 = 0

Note: to connect moments D and E in the bending moment diagram, it is based in

the shear diagram, the segment DE in the shear diagram is 1st degree, therefore,
in the bending moment diagram the curve is 2nd degree. The shear at segment CD
is positive decreasing, therefore, the slope of curve in the bending moment diagram
is positive decreasing (concave downward-left).

slope is decreasing positive from left to right,

2nd degree curve

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Structural Theory 51
The shear and bending moment diagrams of the given beam:

Shear Diagram

2nd degree curve

2nd degree curve

Bending Moment Diagram

2nd degree
curve

Based on the shear and bending moment diagrams, the following are to be noted:
• The maximum shear is located at support B, 𝑉𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 23.33 𝐾𝑁
• The maximum bending moment is located at zero shear at point C,
𝑀𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 20.66 𝐾𝑛 − 𝑚

For Structural Engineers, these maximum shear and bending moment are the critical
values in the design process of a structure.

Example II. Draw the shear and moment diagram of the beam shown below.

Solution:
1. Solve for the support reactions at points B and E.

+↻ ∑ 𝑀𝐸 = 0; 𝑅𝐵 (6) − 20(4)(6) − 60(4) + 120 = 0

600
𝑅𝐵 = = 100 𝐾𝑁
6

+↺ ∑ 𝑀𝐵 = 0; 𝑅𝐸 (6) + 20(4)(0) − 60(2) − 120 = 0

240
𝑅𝐸 = = 40 𝐾𝑁
6

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Structural Theory 52
 2. Draw the load diagram, indicating the support reactions.

3. Draw the shear diagram based on the load diagram.

Note: All upward forces positive and all downward forces negative. Exclude the
external moment of 120 KN-m in constructing the shear diagram. Also use the
principles discussed in lecture 4.2.1.

𝑉𝐴 = 0
𝑉𝐵(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑉𝐴 − 𝑤(𝑥𝐴𝐵 ) = 0 − 20(2) = − 40 𝐾𝑁
𝑉𝐵(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐵(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) + 𝑅𝐵 = −40 + 100 = 60 𝐾𝑁
𝑉𝐶(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑉𝐵(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) − 𝑤(𝑥𝐵𝐶 ) = 60 − 20(2) = 20 𝐾𝑁
𝑉𝐶(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐶(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) − 60 = 20 − 60 = −40 𝐾𝑁
𝑉𝐸(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑉𝐶(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = −40 𝐾𝑁
𝑉𝐸(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐸(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) + 𝑅𝐸 = −40 + 40 = 0

Shear Diagram

Note: In constructing the shear diagram for example II, the same technique is used in
example I.

4. Draw the bending moment diagram based on the shear diagram, also applying the
principles discussed in lecture 4.2.1
Note: Sketch the bending moment diagram starting from left to the right of the beam,
using the area of the shear diagram. For this example, consider the external moment
of 120 KN-m clockwise.

4.1 Compute the areas of the shear diagram per segment.

1
For segment AB: 𝐴𝐴𝐵 = (40)(2) = 40
2
60+20
For segment BC: 𝐴𝐵𝐶 = ( ) (2) = 80
2
For segment CD: 𝐴𝐶𝐷 = (40)(2) = 80
For segment DE: 𝐴𝐷𝐸 = (40)(2) = 80

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Structural Theory 53
 4.2 Determine the bending moments at every point.

𝑀𝐴 = 0
𝑀𝐵 = 𝑀𝐴 ± (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑎𝑡 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐴𝐵)
𝑀𝐵 = 0 − 40 = −40 𝐾𝑁 ∙ 𝑚

Note: To connect moment at A and moment at B: The shear at segment AB is negative

increasing, thus, the slope of the curve at bending moment diagram for segment AB is
also negative increasing (concave downward-right).

𝑀𝐶 = 𝑀𝐵 ± (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑎𝑡 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐵𝐶)

𝑀𝐶 = −40 + 80 = 40 𝐾𝑁 ∙ 𝑚

Note: To connect moment at B and moment at C: The shear at segment BC is positive

decreasing, thus, the slope of the curve at bending moment diagram for segment BC is
also positive decreasing (concave downward-left).

𝑀𝐷(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑀𝐶 ± (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑎𝑡 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐶𝐷)

𝑀𝐷(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 40 − 80 = −40 𝐾𝑁 ∙ 𝑚

𝑀𝐷(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑀𝐷(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) ± (𝑒𝑥𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡, 𝑐𝑙𝑜𝑐𝑘𝑤𝑖𝑠𝑒)

𝑀𝐷(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = −40 + 120 = 80 𝐾𝑁 ∙ 𝑚

Note: For external couple or bending moment, add if clockwise direction and subtract
if counterclockwise direction.

Note: To connect moment at C and moment at D: The shear at segment CD is constant,

thus, the slope of the curve at bending moment diagram for segment CD is also
constant (1st degree or a slanting line).

𝑀𝐸 = 𝑀𝐷(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) ± (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑎𝑡 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐷𝐸)

𝑀𝐸 = 80 − 80 = 0

Note: To connect moment at D and moment at E: The shear at segment DE is constant,

thus, the slope of the curve at bending moment diagram for segment DE is also
constant (1st degree or a slanting line).

2nd degree curve

Bending Moment Diagram

2nd degree curve

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Structural Theory 54
For the next example, the shear diagram is given, the required task is to draw the bending
moment diagram and the loaded beam. It is possible to draw or to derive the load diagram from
a shear diagram but we need to assume no external couple or bending moment acting in the
beam. In doing such task, consider the relationships/principles discussed in lecture 4.2.1.

Example III. Based on the shear diagram given, draw the moment and load diagram of the
beam. Assume no external couple or bending moment acting in the beam.

2nd degree curve

Solution:
1. Determine the moment at points A, B, C, and D using the area of the shear diagram
per segment.

1
For segment AB: 𝐴𝐴𝐵 = (9)(6) = 18
3

16+2
For segment BC: 𝐴𝐵𝐶 = (7) = 63
2

4+14
For segment CD: 𝐴𝐶𝐷 = (5) = 45
2

2nd degree curve

𝑀𝐴 = 0
𝑀𝐵 = 𝑀𝐴 ± (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑎𝑡 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐴𝐵)
𝑀𝐵 = 0 − 18 = −18 𝐾𝑁 ∙ 𝑚

Note: To connect moment at A and moment at B: The shear at segment AB is negative

increasing-2nd degree, thus, the slope of the curve at bending moment diagram for
segment AB is also negative increasing-3rd degree (concave downward-right).

𝑀𝐶 = 𝑀𝐵 ± (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑎𝑡 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐵𝐶)

𝑀𝐶 = −18 + 63 = 45 𝐾𝑁 ∙ 𝑚

Note: To connect moment at B and moment at C: The shear at segment BC is positive

decreasing-1st degree, thus, the slope of the curve at bending moment diagram for
segment BC is also positive decreasing-2nd degree (concave downward-left).

𝑀𝐷 = 𝑀𝐶 ± (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑎𝑡 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐶𝐷)

𝑀𝐷 = 45 − 45 = 0

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Structural Theory 55
 Note: To connect moment at C and moment at D: The shear at segment CD is negative
increasing-1st degree, thus, the slope of the curve at bending moment diagram for
segment CD is also negative increasing-2nd degree (concave downward-right).

2nd degree curve

nd
2 degree curve

3rd degree curve Bending Moment Diagram

2. Determine the loads acting in each segment in order to draw the load diagram
corresponding to the given shear diagram.

For segment AB:

Notice that the shear curve at segment AB is a 2nd degree curve and the slope of
the curve is negative increasing, thus, the intensity, 𝑤, of the load under segment AB
is negative (directed downward) increasing from point A to point B, 1st degree curve.
Therefore, the load under segment AB is a triangular load.

𝑉𝐴 = 0
𝑉𝐵(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑉𝐴 ± (𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑎𝑑 𝑢𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑟 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐴𝐵)
1
−9 = 0 − (𝑤𝐴𝐵 )(6)
2
9(2)
Solving for 𝑤𝐴𝐵 : 𝑤𝐴𝐵 = = 3 𝐾𝑁/𝑚 (directed downward)
6

For segment BC:

Along point B, in the shear diagram there are two coordinates, −9 and 16, this
means that there is a vertical force acting in point B. Notice that the change is from
negative shear (−9) to positive shear (16), thus, the direction of the vertical force at point
B is upward.

𝑉𝐵(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐵(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) ± (𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑐𝑒, 𝑠𝑎𝑦 𝑅𝐵 )

16 = −9 + 𝑅𝐵
Solving for 𝑅𝐵 : 𝑅𝐵 = 16 + 9 = 25 𝐾𝑁 (directed upward)

Based on the shear diagram for segment BC, the slope of the shear curve is
constant, thus, the intensity, 𝑤 of the load under segment BC is constant. Therefore, the
load is uniform or rectangular.

𝑉𝐶(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑉𝐵(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) ± (𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑎𝑑 𝑢𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑟 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐵𝐶)

2 = 16 − 𝑤𝐵𝐶 (7)
16−2
solving for 𝑤𝐵𝐶 : 𝑤𝐵𝐶 = = 2 𝐾𝑁/𝑚 (directed downward)
7

___________________________________________________________________________________________
Structural Theory 56
 For segment CD:
Along point C, in the shear diagram there are two coordinates, 2 and −4, this means
that there is a vertical force acting in point C. Notice that the change is from positive shear
(2) to negative shear (−4), thus, the direction of the vertical force at point C is downward.

𝑉𝐶(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐶(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) ± (𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑐𝑒, 𝑠𝑎𝑦 𝑃𝐶 )

−4 = 2 − 𝑃𝐶
Solving for 𝑃𝐶 : 𝑃𝐶 = 2 + 4 = 6 𝐾𝑁 (directed downward)

The slope of the shear curve at segment CD is constant, thus, the intensity, 𝑤𝐶𝐷
under segment CD is constant, meaning, the load acted in the given beam is uniform
loading or rectangular loading, directed downward.

𝑉𝐷(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑉𝐶(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) ± (𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑎𝑑 𝑢𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑟 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐶𝐷)

−14 = −4 − 𝑤𝐶𝐷 (5)
14−4
solving for 𝑤𝐶𝐷 : 𝑤𝐶𝐷 = = 2 𝐾𝑁/𝑚 (directed downward)
5

𝑉𝐷(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐷(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) ± (𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑐𝑒, 𝑠𝑎𝑦 𝑅𝐷 )

0 = −14 + 𝑅𝐷
Solving for 𝑅𝐷 : 𝑅𝐷 = 14 𝐾𝑁 (directed upward)

Load Diagram

Note: Based on the derived load diagram, 𝑅𝐵 and 𝑅𝐷 are the support reactions of
the beam.

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Structural Theory 57
Tips in constructing the shear and bending moment diagram of a beam:

The ea-curve is a helpful devised to construct the shear and moment diagram. This is
based on the relationships or principles discussed in lecture 4.2.1. This ea-curve is useful in
determining the curve of shear or bending moment diagram.

Note: this ea-curve is not required to

adopt or to use, and you are NOT e-circle
allowed to share this ea-curve with
BSCE students from other
universities/colleges.
-engr.ecapindingjr.

How to use the ea-curve?

• The quarter circumferences of the ea-curve are the outcomes of the curve for shear or
bending moment diagrams.
• The label – increasing, + decreasing, - decreasing, and + decreasing are the intensities
of load for the shear diagram, and intensities of shear for the bending moment diagram.
• + and – denotes the direction of forces in the load diagram. The “increasing” and
“decreasing” are the numerical values of the intensity of the load.
• + and – denotes the sign of the shear force in the shear diagram. The “increasing” and
“decreasing” are the numerical values of the shear force in the shear diagram.
• The degree of the curve is always increased by 1 degree from the load diagram to the
bending moment diagram. Example: say in a segment PQ, the degree of the load under
segment PQ is 0 degree, then, the degree of the shear curve is 1 st, and 2nd degree for the
bending moment curve.

Note: The formation of the shear and bending moment curves are very important in
computing the area for a segment. The concavity or convexity of the curve should be
identified correctly, in order to arrive at the correct diagrams.

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Structural Theory 58
 Consider the following segments of a beam, utilized the e-circle to construct the shear and
bending moment diagrams.

The intensity of the load is negative

increasing, 1st degree curve

Example 1. Load Diagram

Corresponding Shear diagram for

segment AB

The slope of the shear curve is

negative increasing, 2nd degree curve

The intensity of the shear is negative

increasing

Corresponding Bending Moment

diagram for segment AB

The slope of the bending moment curve is

negative increasing, 3rd degree curve

The intensity of the load is negative

decreasing, 1st degree curve
Example 2.
Load Diagram

The slope of the shear curve is

negative decreasing, 2nd degree
curve

The intensity of the shear is negative

increasing

The slope of the bending moment curve

is negative increasing, 3rd degree curve

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Structural Theory 59
REFERENCES:
A. BOOKS
• Hibbler, R.C., Structural Analysis, 8th Ed., Prentice Hall
• Rajan. S.D., Introduction to Structural Analysis and Design, John Wiley &
Sons, 2001
• Hsieh, Yuan-Yu, Elementary Theory of Structures 2nd Ed. Prentice-Hall, Inc.
2982

SELF-CHECK ACTIVITY NO. 4-2: SHEAR AND MOMENT DIAGRAMS OF STATICALLY

DETERMINATE BEAMS

Direction: Do as required.

Situation I. Construct the shear and bending moment diagrams of the beam loaded as shown.

Situation II. From the shear diagram shown, construct the corresponding load and bending
moment diagrams of the beam. Assume to external couple or bending moment acting in the
beam.

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Structural Theory 60
ANSWERS AND SOLUTIONS TO SELF-CHECK ACTIVITY NO. 4-2

Situation I.
1. Solve for the support reactions of given beam.
• Isolate segment CDEF of the beam to solve for the support reaction at point E.

Note: we can disconnect the two parts of the beam since it is connected by internal
hinge. Segment ABC and segment CDEF, the second segment is simpler than the
first segment, since there are only two unknowns for segment CDEF.

+↺ ∑ 𝑀𝐶 = 0: 𝑅𝐸 (4) − 30 − 10(6) = 0
30+10(6)
solving for 𝑅𝐸 : 𝑅𝐸 = = 22.5 𝐾𝑁 (↑)
4

+↺ ∑ 𝑀𝐸 = 0: 𝐶𝑦 (4) − 30 − 10(2) = 0
30+10(2)
solving for 𝐶𝑦 : 𝐶𝑦 = = 12.5 𝐾𝑁 (↓ 𝑎𝑡 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐶𝐷𝐸𝐹)
4

• Isolate segment CDEF of the beam to solve the support reaction and moment at
point A.

Note: In isolating segment ABC, the direction of the internal force, 𝐶𝑦 is reversed to
its direction at segment CDEF. (refer to statics of rigid bodies)

+↑ ∑ 𝐹𝑣 = 0: 𝑅𝐴 − 20 + 12.5 = 0
solving for 𝑅𝐴 : 𝑅𝐴 = 7.5 𝐾𝑁 (↑)

+↺ ∑ 𝑀𝐴 = 0: 𝑀𝐴 − 20(2) + 12.5(5) = 0
solving for 𝑀𝐴 : 𝑀𝐴 = −22.5 𝐾𝑁 ∙ 𝑚
𝑀𝐴 = 22.5 𝐾𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 (↻)

2. Construct the shear diagram based on the load diagram.

𝑉𝐴(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 0, since no loads/forces acting at the left of point A.

𝑉𝐴(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐴(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) ± 𝑅𝐴
𝑉𝐴(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 0 + 7.5 = 7.5 𝐾𝑁

𝑉𝐵(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑉𝐴(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 7.5 𝐾𝑁

𝑉𝐵(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐵(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) − 20 = 7.5 − 20 = −12.5 𝐾𝑁

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Structural Theory 61
 Note: No external forces acting between right of point B and left of point E, thus, the
shear within this segment is constant.

𝑉𝐸(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑉𝐵(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = −12.5 𝐾𝑁

𝑉𝐸(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐸(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) ± 𝑅𝐸 = −12.5 + 22.5 = 10 𝐾𝑁
𝑉𝐹(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑉𝐸(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 10 𝐾𝑁
𝑉𝐹(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐹(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) − 10 = 10 − 10 = 0

Shear Diagram

Note: Observe the shear at point C or at the internal hinge, based on the diagram the
internal force or the shear at this point is −12.5 𝐾𝑁 which is equal to the numerical solution
at item 1, (𝐶𝑦 = −12.5 𝐾𝑁).

3. Construct the bending moment diagram based on the shear diagram and load
diagram since an external moment is acting in the beam.

• Compute the area of each segment in the shear diagram.

For segment AB: 𝐴𝐴𝐵 = 7.5(2) = 15

For segment BC: 𝐴𝐵𝐶 = 12.5(3) = 37.5
For segment CD: 𝐴𝐶𝐷 = 12.5(2) = 25
For segment DE: 𝐴𝐷𝐸 = 12.5(2) = 25
For segment EF: 𝐴𝐷𝐹 = 10(2) = 20

Note: Since all the shear in each segment is constant, thus, the slope of the
bending moment in each segment is constant.

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Structural Theory 62
 • Determine the moment at each points.

𝑀𝐴 = 22.5 𝐾𝑁 ∙ 𝑚
𝑀𝐵 = 𝑀𝐴 + 𝐴𝐴𝐵 = 22.5 + 15 = 37.5 𝐾𝑁 ∙ 𝑚
𝑀𝐶 = 𝑀𝐵 − 𝐴𝐵𝐶 = 37.5 − 37.5 = 0

Note: The moment at point C is zero, since moment at internal connection (either
hinge or roller) is always zero.

𝑀𝐷(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑀𝐶 − 𝐴𝐶𝐷 = 0 − 25 = −25 𝐾𝑁 ∙ 𝑚

𝑀𝐷(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑀𝐷(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) + 30 = −25 + 30 = 5 𝐾𝑁 ∙ 𝑚

Note: Since the external moment (30 𝐾𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 ) is acting clockwise at point D, add to
the previous moment.

𝑀𝐸 = 𝑀𝐷(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) − 𝐴𝐷𝐸 = 5 − 25 = −20 𝐾𝑁 ∙ 𝑚

𝑀𝐹 = 𝑀𝐸 + 𝐴𝐸𝐹 = −20 + 20 = 0

Bending Moment
Diagram

Situation II.

1. Construct the bending moment diagram based on the shear diagram.

• Compute the area of each segment.

For segment AB: 𝐴𝐴𝐵 = 14400(8) = 115200

For segment BC: 𝐴𝐵𝐶 = 2400(8) = 9600
For segment CD:
Solve for 𝑥𝐶𝐷 by ratio and proportion of the similar triangles.

𝑥𝐶𝐷 12
=
2400 2400+26400

𝑥𝐶𝐷 = 1 𝑚, ∴ 𝑥𝐷𝐸 = 11 𝑚

1
𝐴𝐶𝐷 = (2400)(1) = 1200
2
1
For segment DE: 𝐴𝐷𝐸 = (26400)(11) = 145200
2

1
For segment EF: 𝐴𝐸𝐹 = (9600)(4) = 19200
2

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Structural Theory 63
 • Compute the moment at each point.

𝑀𝐴 = 0
𝑀𝐵 = 𝑀𝐴 ± (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑜𝑓 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑖𝑛 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐴𝐵)
𝑀𝐵 = 0 + 115200 = 115200 𝑁 ∙ 𝑚

To connect point A and point B, the value of shear in segment AB is constant, thus,
the slope in the bending moment diagram for segment AB is constant.

𝑀𝐶 = 𝑀𝐵 ± (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑜𝑓 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑖𝑛 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐵𝐶)

𝑀𝐶 = 115200 + 9600 = 124800 𝑁 ∙ 𝑚

To connect point B and point C, the value of shear in segment BC is constant, thus,
the slope in the bending moment diagram for segment BC is constant.

𝑀𝐷 = 𝑀𝐶 ± (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑜𝑓 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑖𝑛 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐶𝐷)

𝑀𝐷 = 124800 + 1200 = 126000 𝑁 ∙ 𝑚

To connect point C and point D, the value of shear in segment CD is positive

decreasing, thus, the slope in the bending moment diagram for segment CD is
positive decreasing, 2nd degree curve (concave to the left).

𝑀𝐸 = 𝑀𝐷 ± (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑜𝑓 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑖𝑛 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐷𝐸)

𝑀𝐸 = 126000 − 145200 = −19200 𝑁 ∙ 𝑚

To connect point D and point E, the value of shear in segment DE is negative

increasing, thus, the slope in the bending moment diagram for segment DE is
negative increasing, 2nd degree curve (concave to the right).

𝑀𝐹 = 𝑀𝐸 ± (𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑜𝑓 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑖𝑛 𝑠𝑒𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐸𝐹)

𝑀𝐹 = −19200 + 19200 = 0

To connect point E and point F, the value of shear in segment EF is positive

decreasing, thus, the slope in the bending moment diagram for segment EF is
positive decreasing, 2nd degree curve (concave to the left).

2nd degree
2nd degree

Bending Moment Diagram 2nd degree

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Structural Theory 64
 2. Construct the load diagram based on the shear diagram. It is noted that no external
couple or moment acting in the beam.

At point A, 𝑉𝐴(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 0 and 𝑉𝐴(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 14400 𝑁, this signifies that a vertical force is acting
at point A. From zero shear to 14400 N (positive shear), it indicates that the vertical
force is upward, say 𝑅𝐴 .

𝑉𝐴(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐴(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) + 𝑅𝐴
14400 = 0 + 𝑅𝐴

Solving for 𝑅𝐴 : 𝑅𝐴 = 14400 𝑁

Since the shear at segment AB is constant, this indicates that no load acting within
this segment. At point B, the shear decreases from 14400 𝑁 to 2400 𝑁, this signifies
that a vertical load directed downward is acting at point B, say 𝑃𝐵 .

𝑉𝐵(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐵(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) − 𝑃𝐵
Note that 𝑉𝐵(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑉𝐴(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 14400

2400 = 14400 − 𝑃𝐵
solving for 𝑃𝐵 : 𝑃𝐵 = 12000 𝑁

At segment CDE, the slope of the shear diagram is constant, this means that the
intensity of the load at segment CDE is also constant, which corresponds to a
rectangular load, say 𝑤𝐶𝐷𝐸 directed downward.

𝑉𝐸(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = 𝑉𝐶 − 𝑤𝐶𝐷𝐸 (12)

−26400 = 2400 − 𝑤𝐶𝐷𝐸 (12)
26400+2400
solving for 𝑤𝐶𝐷𝐸 : 𝑤𝐶𝐷𝐸 = = 2400 𝑁/𝑚
12

At point E, an increase in shear from 𝑉𝐸(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) = −26400 𝑁 to 𝑉𝐸(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 9600 𝑁, this

signifies that a vertical force directed upward is acting in this point, say 𝑅𝐸 .

𝑉𝐸(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) = 𝑉𝐸(𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡) + 𝑅𝐸
9600 = −26400 + 𝑅𝐸
solving for 𝑅𝐸 : 𝑅𝐸 = 36000 𝑁

At segment EF, the slope of the shear diagram is constant, this means that the intensity
of the load at segment EF is also constant, which corresponds to a rectangular load, say
𝑤𝐸𝐹 directed downward.
𝑉𝐹 = 𝑉𝐸(𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡) − 𝑤𝐸𝐹
0 = 9600 − 𝑤𝐸𝐹(4)
9600
solving for 𝑤𝐸𝐹 : 𝑤𝐸𝐹 = = 2400 𝑁/𝑚
4

Load Diagram

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Structural Theory 65