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3–1. Classify each of the following trusses as statically

determinate, statically indeterminate, or unstable. If
indeterminate, state its degree.

(a) (b)

Solution
a) b = 8, r = 3, j = 6
b + r = 2j
11 6 12
Unstable. Ans.

b) b = 7, r = 4, j = 5
b + r = 2j
11 7 10
Statically indeterminate to the first degree. Ans.

c) b = 13, r = 3, j = 8
b + r = 2j (c)
16 = 16
Statically determinate. Ans.

d) b = 21, r = 3, j = 12
b + r = 2j
24 = 24
Statically determinate. Ans.

(d)

Ans:
a. Unstable.
b. Statically indeterminate to the first degree.
c. Statically determinate.
d. Statically determinate.

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3–2. Classify each of the following trusses as statically

determinate, indeterminate, or unstable. If indeterminate,
state its degree.

(a)

Solution
a) By inspection, the truss is internally and externally stable. Here, b = 9, r = 3
and j = 6. Since b + r = 2j, the truss is statically determinate.
(b)
b) By inspection, the truss is internally and externally stable. Here, b = 11,
r = 3 and j = 6. Since b + r 7 2j and (b + r) - 2j = 2, the truss is statically
indeterminate to the second degree.

Ans:
a. Internally and externally stable.
Statically determinate.
b. Internally and externally stable.
Statically indeterminate to second degree.

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3–3. Classify each of the following trusses as stable,

unstable, statically determinate, or statically indeterminate.
If indeterminate state its degree.

(a)

Solution
a) By inspection, the truss is internally and externally stable. Here, b = 9, r = 3
and j = 6. Since b + r = 2j, the truss is statically determinate.

b) By inspection, the truss is internally and externally stable. Here, b = 9, r = 4 and

j = 6. Since b + r 7 2j and (b + r) - 2j = 1, the truss is statically indeterminate
to the first degree.
(b)
c) By inspection, the truss is internally unstable: the left and right ends are not
rigidly joined across the middle. Note also that b = 17, r = 3, and j = 11, so
that b + r 6 2j.

(c)

Ans:
a. Internally and externally stable.
Statically determinate.
b. Internally and externally stable.
Statically indeterminate to first degree.
c. Internally unstable.

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*3–4. Classify each of the following trusses as statically

determinate, statically indeterminate, or unstable.

(b)
(a)

Solution
(a)

r= 3
b = 14
j = 8
(c)
3 + 14 = 8(2)
17 6 16

Unstable. Ans.

(b)

r= 3
b = 9
j = 6

3 + 9 = 6(2)
12 = 12

Stable, determinate. Ans.

(c)

r= 3
b = 15
j = 10

3 + 15 6 10(2)
18 6 20

Unstable. Ans.

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3–5. Determine the force in each member of the truss. G F

State if the members are in tension or compression. Assume
all members are pin connected.

E
3m

A B C D
2m 2m 2m

5 kN 5 kN 5 kN

Solution
Joint D:
3
+ c Fy = 0; FED a b - 5 = 0; FED = 8.33 kN (T) Ans.
5

+ Fx = 0; 4
S FCD - (8.33) = 0;
5
FCD = 6.67 kN (C) Ans.

Joint C:
+ Fx = 0;
S FBC - 6.67 = 0;
FBC = 6.67 kN (C) Ans.
+ c Fy = 0; FCE - 5 = 0;
FCE = 5 kN (T) Ans.

Joint G:

+ Fx = 0;
S FGF - 20 = 0; FGF = 20 kN (T) Ans.

+ c Fy = 0; 15 - FGA = 0; FGA = 15 kN (T) Ans.

Joint A:

+ c Fy = 0; 15 - FAF (sin 56.3) = 0;

FAF = 18.0 kN (C) Ans.

+ Fx = 0;
S -FAB - 18.0(cos 56.3) + 20 = 0;

FAB = 10.0 kN (C) Ans.

Joint B:
+ Fx = 0; 4
S -FBE a b + 10.0 - 6.67 = 0;
5
FBE = 4.17 kN (C) Ans.
3
+ c Fy = 0; FFB - 5 - 4.17a b = 0;
5
FFB = 7.50 kN (T) Ans. Ans:
FED = 8.33 kN (T); FCD = 6.67 kN (C);
Joint F: FBC = 6.67 kN (C); FCE = 5 kN (T);
3 FGF = 20 kN (T); FGA = 15 kN (T);
+ c Fy = 0; 18(sin 56.3) - 7.5 - FFE a b = 0;
5 FAF = 18.0 kN (C); FAB = 10.0 kN (C);
FFE = 12.5 kN (T) Ans. FBE = 4.17 kN (C); FFB = 7.50 kN (T);
FFE = 12.5 kN (T)

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3–6. Determine the force in each member of the truss. 40 kN

20 kN
State if the members are in tension or compression.
4m
B C

60 E 60
A D

4m 4m
Solution

Support Reactions. Referring to the FBD of the entire truss, Fig. a

a + MA = 0; ND (8) - 20(2) - 40(6) = 0 ND = 35.0 kN

Method of Joints

Joint D. Fig. b
+ c Fy = 0; 35.0 - FDC sin 60 = 0 FDC = 40.41 kN (C) = 40.4 kN (C) Ans.
+ Fx = 0;
S 40.41 cos 60 - FDE = 0 FDE = 20.21 kN (T) = 20.2 kN (T) Ans.

Joint C. Fig. c
+ c Fy = 0; FCE sin 60 + 40.41 sin 60 - 40 = 0 FCE = 5.774 kN
= 5.77 kN(C) Ans.
+ Fx = 0;
S FCB + 5.774 cos 60 - 40.41 cos 60 = 0 FCB = 17.32 kN (C)
= 17.3 kN (C) Ans.

Joint B. Fig. d
+QFx = 0; FBA sin 60 - 17.32 sin 60 - 20 cos 60 = 0 FBA = 28.87 kN (C)
= 28.9 kN (C) Ans.

a+ Fy = 0; 17.32 cos 60 + 28.87 cos 60 - 20 sin 60 - FBE = 0

FBE = 5.774 kN (T) = 5.77 kN (T) Ans.

Joint E. Fig. e
+ Fx = 0;
S 20.21 - 5.774 cos 60 - 5.774 cos 60 - FEA = 0

FEA = 14.43 kN (T) = 14.4 kN (T) Ans.

Ans:
FDC = 40.4 kN (C);
FDE = 20.2 kN (T);
FCE = 5.77 kN (C);
FCB = 17.3 kN (C);
FBA = 28.9 kN (C);
FBE = 5.77 kN (T)

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3–7. Determine the force in each member of the truss. 4m

State whether the members are in tension or compression. B C
Set P = 8 kN.

60 E 60
A D

4m 4m
P
Solution
Method of Joints: In this case, the support reactions are not required for determining
the member forces.

Joint D:

+ c Fy = 0; FDC sin 60 - 8 = 0

FDC = 9.238 kN (T) = 9.24 kN (T) Ans.

+ Fx = 0;
S FDE - 9.238 cos 60 = 0
FDE = 4.619 kN (C) = 4.62 kN (C) Ans.

Joint C:

+ c Fy = 0; FCE sin 60 - 9.328 sin 60 = 0

FCE = 9.238 kN (C) = 9.24 kN (C) Ans.
+ Fx = 0;
S 2(9.238 cos 60) - FCB = 0
FCB = 9.238 kN (T) = 9.24 kN (T) Ans.

Joint B:

+ c Fy = 0; FBE sin 60 - FBA sin 60 = 0

FBE = FBA = F
+ Fx = 0;
S 9.238 - 2Fcos 60 = 0

F = 9.238 kN

Thus, FBE = 9.24 kN (C) FBA = 9.24 kN (T) Ans.

Joint E:

+ c Fy = 0; Ey - 2(9.238 sin 60) = 0 Ey = 16.0 kN

+ Fx = 0;
S FBA + 9.238 cos 60 - 9.238 cos 60 - 4.619 = 0

FEA = 4.62 kN (C) Ans.

Note: The support reactions Ax and Ay can be determined by analyzing Joint A

using the results obtained above.

Ans:
FDC = 9.24 kN (T); FDE = 4.62 kN (C);
FCE = 9.24 kN (C); FCB = 9.24 kN (T);
FBE = 9.24 kN (C); FBA = 9.24 kN (T);
FEA = 4.62 kN (C)

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*3–8. If the maximum force that any member can support 4m

is 8 kN in tension and 6 kN in compression, determine the B C
maximum force P that can be supported at joint D.

60 E 60
A D

4m 4m
P
Solution
Method of Joints: In this case, the support reactions are not required for determining
the member forces.

Joint D:

+ c Fy = 0; FDC sin 60 - P = 0 FDC = 1.1547P (T)

+ Fx = 0;
S FDE - 1.1547P cos 60 = 0 FDE = 0.57735P (C)

Joint C:
+ c Fy = 0; FCE sin 60 - 1.1547P sin 60 = 0
FCE = 1.1547P (C)
+ Fx = 0;
S 2(1.1547P cos 60) - FCB = 0 FCB = 1.1547P (T)

Joint B:

+ c Fy = 0; FBE sin 60 - FBE sin 60 = 0 FBE = FBA = F

+ Fx = 0;
S 1.1547P - 2F cos 60 = 0 F = 1.1547P

Thus, FBE = 1.1547P (C) FBA = 1.1547P (T)

Joint E:
+ Fx = 0;
S FEA + 1.1547P cos 60 - 1.1547P cos 60 - 0.57735P = 0

FEA = 0.57735P (C)

From the above analysis, the maximum compression and tension in the truss
members is 1.1547P. For this case, compression controls, which requires

1.1547P = 6
P = 5.20 kN Ans.

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3–9. Determine the force in each member of the truss. 18 kN 18 kN

State if the members are in tension or compression.
F E

3m 9 kN

Solution D
A B C
Reactions: 30°
4m 4m 4m

"Y  40.5 kN,
$X  0, $Y  4.5 kN

18 kN 18 kN
Joint A:

 C ; &Y  0;
3 9 kN
(&!&) 9  0
5
&!&  15 kN (T) Ans.

; &X  0;
4

 &!"  (15)  0 4m 4m 4m
5
&!"  12 kN (C) Ans.

Joint B:
 C ; &Y  0; 40.5 (&"&)  0
9 kN

&"&  40.5 kN (C) Ans.

 ; &X  0; 12 &"#  0


&"#  12 kN (C) Ans.

12 kN
Joint F:
 C ; &Y  0;
3 3
(& ) 18 (15)  40.5  0 40.5 kN
5 &# 5
&&#  22.5 kN (T) Ans.

; &X  0;
4 4

 &&% (15)  (22.5)  0 36 kN
5 5
&&%  6 kN (C) Ans.

15 kN 40.5 kN
Joint C:
 C ; &Y  0; &#% 
3
(22.5)  0
5
22.5 kN
&#%  13.5 kN (C) Ans.

; &X  0;
4

 &#$  (12) (22.5)  0 12 kN
5
&#$  6 kN (T) Ans.

Joint D:
 C ; &Y  0; (&$%)  4.5  0
3
5 Ans: 6 kN
FAF = 15 kN (T); FAB = 12 kN (C); 4.5 kN
&$%  7.5 kN (C) Ans. FBF = 40.5 kN (C); FBC = 12 kN (C);

; &X  0;
4

 FFC = 22.5 kN (T); FFE = 6 kN (C);
(7.5) 6  0
(Check)
5 FCE = 13.5 kN (C); FCD = 6 kN (T);
FDE = 7.5 kN (C)

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3–10. Determine the force in each member of the truss. 10 kN

State if the members are in tension or compression.
F 6 kN

G E
3m
A
D
B C

2.5 m 1.5 m 1.5 m 2.5 m

Solution

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3–10. (Continued)

Support Reactions. Referring to the FBD of the entire truss, Fig. a

4
a + M A = 0; ND(8) - 10(4) - 6a b (5.5) = 0 ND = 8.30 kN
5

Method of Joints. By inspecting joint G and the joint B, we notice that members GB
and BF are zero-force members. Thus

FGB = FBF = 0 Ans.

Joint D. Fig. b
3
+ c Fy = 0; 8.30 - FDE a b = 0 FDE = 13.83 kN (C) = 13.8 kN (C) Ans.
5

+ Fx = 0; 4
S 13.83a b - FDC = 0 FDC = 11.07 kN (T) = 11.1 kN (T) Ans.
5

Joint E. Fig. c

R + Fx = 0; FEF - 13.83 = 0 FEF = 13.83 kN (C) = 13.8 kN (C) Ans.

+ QFy = 0; FEC - 6 = 0 FEC = 6.00 kN (C) Ans.

Joint C. Fig. d
2 4
+ c Fy = 0; FCF a b - 6.00a b = 0 FCF = 5.367 kN (T) = 5.37 kN (T) Ans.
15 5

+ Fx = 0; 1 3
S 11.07 - 5.367a b - 6a b - FCB = 0
15 5
FCB = 5.067 kN (T) = 5.07 kN (T) Ans.
Joint F. Fig. e
+ Fx = 0; 4 1 4
S FFG a b + 5.367a b - 13.83a b = 0
5 15 5

FFG = 10.83 kN (C) = 10.8 kN (C) Ans.

3 3 2
+ c Fy = 0; 10.83a b + 13.83a b - 5.367a b - 10 = 0 (Check!)
5 5 15

Joint G. Fig. f

+ QFy = 0; FGA - 10.83 = 0 FGA = 10.83 kN (C) = 10.8 kN (C) Ans.

Joint B. Fig. g
+ Fx = 0;
S 5.067 - FBA = 0 FBA = 5.067 kN (T) = 5.07 kN (T) Ans.

Ans:
FGB = FBF = 0; FDE = 13.8 kN (C);
FDC = 11.1 kN (T); FEF = 13.8 kN (C);
FEC = 6.00 kN (C); FCF = 5.37 kN (T);
FCB = 5.07 kN (T); FFG = 10.8 kN (C);
FGA = 10.8 kN (C); FBA = 5.07 kN (T)

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3–11. Specify the type of compound truss and determine 4 kN 6 kN 4 kN

the force in each member. State if the members are in
tension or compression. Assume the members are C
E
pin connected.
45
D

F G 3m
45
45
A B

Solution
3m 3m
Type 1 truss

a + M D = 0; 3(4) - 3(7) + 3FAB = 0; FAB = 3 kN (T) Ans.

a + M E = 0; 3(3) - 3 cos 45 FFD = 0; FFD = 4.24 kN (C) Ans.

a + M A = 0; FED = 0 Ans.

Joint A
+ F = 0;
S 3 - FAF cos 45 = 0
x
FAF = 4.24 kN (C) Ans.
+ c Fy = 0; 7 - 4.24 sin 45 - FFA = 0
FEA = 4 kN (C) Ans.

Joint E
+ F = 0;
S FEF = 0 Ans.
x

Due to symmetry
FED = FDC = 0 Ans.
FEF = FCG = 0 Ans.
FDF = FDG = 4.24 kN (C) Ans.
FAF = FGB = 4.24 kN (C) Ans.
FAB = 3 kN (T) Ans.
FEA = FCB = 4 kN (C) Ans.

Ans:
FED = FDC = 0; FEF = FCG = 0;
FDF = FDG = 4.24 kN (C);
FAF = FGB = 4.24 kN (C); FAB = 3 kN (T);
FEA = FCB = 4 kN (C)

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*3–12. Determine the force in each member of the truss. 3 kN

State if the members are in tension or compression. Assume
all members are pin connected. 3 kN E 3 kN

2m
1.5 kN F D 1.5 kN

2m
A C
B

3m 3m 3m 3m

Solution

Support Reactions. Referring to the FBD of the entire truss, Fig. a

a + MA = 0; NC (12) - 3(3) - 3(6) - 3(9) - 1.5(12) = 0 Nc = 6.00 kN

Method of Joints
Joint C. Fig. b
2
+ c Fy = 0; 6.00 - 1.5 - FCD a b = 0
113
FCD = 8.112 kN (C) = 8.11 kN (C) Ans.

+ Fx = 0; 3
S 8.112a b - FCB = 0 FCB = 6.75 kN (T) Ans.
113
Joint D. Fig. c

+QFy = 0; FDB sin 67.38 - 3 sin 56.31 = 0

FDB = 2.704 kN (C) = 2.70 kN(C) Ans.
R + Fx = 0; FDE + 3 cos 56.31 + 2.704 cos 67.38 - 8.112 = 0
FDE = 5.408 kN(C) = 5.41 kN (C) Ans.
Joint E. Fig. d

+ Fx = 0; 3 3
S FEF a b - 5.408a b = 0
113 113
FEF = 5.408 kN (C) = 5.41 kN (C) Ans.
2
+ c Fy = 0; 2c 5.408a b d - 3 - FEB = 0 FEB = 3.00 kN (T) Ans.
113
Due to symmetry
FAB = FCB = 6.75 kN (T) Ans.
FFB = FDB = 2.70 kN (C) Ans.
FAF = FCD = 8.11 kN (C) Ans.

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30 kN/m
3–13. The truss shown is used to support the floor deck.
The uniform load on the deck is 30 kN> m. This load is
transferred from the deck to the floor beams, which rest on H
the top joints of the truss. Determine the force in each N
M K I
member of the truss, and state if the members are in tension L J 4m
or compression. Assume all members are pin connected. A
B C D E F G
6 @ 4 m  24 m

Solution
Reactions:
Ax = 0, Ay = 360 kN, Gy = 360 kN
Joint A:
+
S ΣFx = 0; FAB = 0 Ans.
+ c ΣFy = 0; 360 - FAN = 0; FAN = 360 kN 1C 2 Ans.
Joint N:
+ c ΣFy = 0; 360 - 60 - FNB 1sin 45° 2 = 0
FNB = 424.3 = 424 kN 1T 2 Ans.
+
S ΣFx = 0; - 424.3(cos 45° 2 - FNM = 0
FNM = 300 kN 1C 2 Ans.
Joint M:
+
S ΣFx = 0; 300 - FML = 0; FML = 300 kN 1C 2 Ans.
+ c ΣFy = 0; FMB - 120 = 0; FMB = 120 kN 1C 2 Ans.
Joint B:
+ c ΣFy = 0; - FBL sin 45° + 424.3 sin 45° - 120 = 0
FBL = 254.6 kN = 255 kN 1C 2 Ans.
+
S ΣFx = 0; FBC - 254.6 cos 45° - 424.3 cos 45° = 0
FBC = 480 kN 1T 2 Ans.
Joint C:
+
S ΣFx = 0; FCD - 480 = 0; FCD = 480 kN 1T 2 Ans.
+ c ΣFy = 0; FCL = 0 Ans.
Joint L:
+ c ΣFy = 0; - FLD sin 45° + 254.6 sin 45° - 120 = 0
FLD = 84.85 kN = 84.9 kN 1T 2 Ans.
+
S ΣFx = 0; - FLK + 300 + 254.6 cos 45° + 84.85 cos 45° = 0
FLK = 540 kN 1C 2 Ans.

Joint K:
+ c ΣFy = 0; FKD - 120 = 0; FKD = 120 kN 1C 2 Ans.

Due to symmetrical loading and geometry

FGH = 360 kN 1C 2; FFG = 0 Ans.
FHF = 424 kN 1T 2; FHI = 300 kN 1C 2 Ans.
FIJ = 300 kN 1C 2; FIF = 120 kN 1C 2 Ans.
FFJ = 255 kN 1C 2; FEF = 480 kN 1T 2 Ans.
FDE = 480 kN 1T 2; FJE = 0 Ans.
FJD = 84.9 kN 1T 2; FKJ = 540 kN 1C 2 Ans.

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G F
3–14. Determine the force in each member of the truss.
Indicate if the members are in tension or compression.
Assume all members are pin connected.
E
3m

Solution
Joint D:
A B C D
3 2m 2m 2m
+ c ΣFy = 0; FEDa b - 5 = 0; FED = 8.33 kN 1T 2 Ans.
5
5 kN 5 kN 5 kN
+ 4
S ΣFx = 0; FCD - 18.332 = 0;
5
FCD = 6.67 kN 1C 2 Ans.

Joint C:
+
S ΣFx = 0; FBC - 6.67 = 0;
FBC = 6.67 kN 1C 2 Ans.

+ c ΣFy = 0; FCE - 5 = 0;
FCE = 5 kN 1T 2 Ans.

Joint G:
+
S ΣFx = 0; FGF - 20 = 0; FGF = 20 kN 1T 2 Ans.

+ c ΣFy = 0; 15 - FGA = 0; FGA = 15 kN 1T 2 Ans.

Joint A:

+ c ΣFy = 0; 15 - FAF 1sin 56.3° 2 = 0;

FAF = 18.0 kN 1C 2 Ans.

+
S ΣFx = 0; -FAB - 18.0(cos 56.30 2 + 20 = 0;
FAB = 10.0 kN 1C 2 Ans.

Joint B:

+ 4
S ΣFx = 0; - FBEa b + 10.0 - 6.67 = 0;
5
FBE = 4.17 kN 1C 2 Ans.

3
+ c ΣFy = 0; FFB - 5 - 4.17a b = 0;
5
FFB = 7.50 kN 1T 2 Ans.

Joint F:
3
+ c ΣFy = 0; 181sin 56.30 2 - 7.5 - FFEa b = 0;
5
FFE = 12.5 kN 1T 2 Ans.

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3–15. Determine the force in each member of the truss. 6 kN

State if the members are in tension or compression. Assume 3 kN 3 kN
all members are pin connected. 3m 3m
G F E

2m

B C
2m
A D
Solution
1.5 m 3m 1.5 m
Support Reactions. Referring to the FBD of the entire truss, Fig. a

a + MA = 0; ND(6) - 6(3) - 3(6) = 0 N D = 6.00 kN

Method of Joints

Joint D, Fig. b
+ F = 0;
S FDC = 0 Ans.
x

+ c Fy = 0; 6.00 - FDE = 0 FDE = 6.00 kN (C) Ans.

Joint E, Fig. c
4
+ c Fy = 0; 6.00 - 3 - FEC a b = 0 FEC = 3.75 kN (T) Ans.
5

+ F = 0; 3
S x FEF - 3.75a b = 0 FEF = 2.25 kN (C) Ans.
5
Joint C, Fig. d
4 4
+ c Fy = 0; 3.75a b - FCF a b = 0 FCF = 3.75 kN (C) Ans.
5 5

+ F = 0; 3 3
S x 3.75a b + 3.75 a b - FCB = 0 FCB = 4.50 kN (T) Ans.
5 5

Due to symmetry

FGF = FEF = 2.25 kN (C) Ans.

FGB = FEC = 3.75 kN (T) Ans.
FAB = FDC = 0 Ans.
FAG = FDE = 6.00 kN (C) Ans.
FBF = FCF = 3.75 kN (C) Ans.

Ans:
FGF = FEF = 2.25 kN (C);
FGB = FEC = 3.75 kN (T); FAB = FDC = 0;
FAG = FDE = 6.00 kN (C);
FBF = FCF = 3.75 kN (C); FCB = 4.50 kN (T)

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*3–16. The members of the truss have a mass of 5 kg>m. P

Lifting is done using a cable connected to joints E and G.
Determine the largest member force and specify if it is in
tension or compression. Assume half the weight of each
member can be applied as a force acting at each joint.
H

30 30
F 30
G E

60 60
A D
Solution B C 30
2m 1m 1m 2m
The weights for the truss members are as follows:
W AG = W GF = W FE = W ED = 1.732(5)(9.81) = 84.957 N
W AB = W BF = W BC = W CF = W CD = 2(5)(9.81) = 98.1 N
W GB = W CI = 1(5)(9.81) = 49.50 N

The total weight of the truss is

Wtotal = P = 4(84.957) + 5(98.1) + 2(49.05) = 928.428 N

The force acting on each joint for the truss:

(84.957 + 98.1)
FD = FA = = 91.53 N
2

[84.957(2) + 49.05]
FG = FE = = 109.48 N
2
[98.1(3) + 49.05]
FB = FC = = 171.68 N
2
[84.957(2) + 98.1(2)]
FF = = 183.06 N
2
Joint H
+ c Fy = 0; 928.428 - 2T cos 30 = 0
T = 536.028 = 536 N Ans.

Joint A
+ c Fy = 0; FAG sin 30 - 91.529 = 0
FAG = 183.057 = 183 N(T) Ans.
+ Fx = 0;
S -FAB + 183.057 cos 30 = 0
FAB = 158.532 = 159 N(C) Ans.

Joint G
+QFx = 0; -FGF + 536.028 cos 30 - 183.057 - 109.482 sin 30 = 0
FGF = 226.416 = 226 N (C) Ans.

+a Fy = 0; -FGB - 109.482 cos 30 + 536.028 sin 30 = 0

FGB = 173.200 = 173 N (T) Ans.

Joint B
+ c Fy = 0; 173.200 sin 60 + FBF sin 60 - 171.675 = 0
FBF = 25.033 = 25.0 N (T) Ans.
+ Fx = 0;
S 25.033 cos 60 - FBC - 173.200 cos 60 + 158.532 = 0
FBC = 84.4 N (C) Ans.

Thus by comparison
FGF = FEF = 226 N (T) Ans.

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3–17. Determine the force in each member of the truss. 6 kN

State if the members are in tension or compression. 2m 2m 2m
E D
A
1.5 m

B
C

6 kN

Solution

Support Reactions. Not required

Method of Joints

Joint D, Fig. a
3
+ c Fy = 0; FDC a b - 6 = 0 FDC = 10.0 kN (C) Ans.
5

+ Fx = 0; 4
S FDE - 10.0a b = 0 FDE = 8.00 kN (C) Ans.
5
Joint C, Fig. b,
3 3
+ c Fy = 0; FCE a b - 10.0a b - 6 = 0
173 5
FCE = 34.18 kN (T) = 34.2 kN (T) Ans.

+ Fx = 0; FCB + 10.0a 4 b - 34.18a 8 b = 0 FCB = 24.0 kN (C)

S Ans.
5 173
Joint E, Fig. c

+ Fx = 0; 8
S 34.18a b - 8.00 - FEA = 0 FEA = 24.0 kN (T) Ans.
173

3
+ c Fy = 0; FEB - 34.18a b = 0 FEB = 12.0 kN (C) Ans.
173

Joint B, Fig. d
+ Fx = 0; 4 Ans:
S FBA a b - 24.0 = 0 FBA = 30.0 kN (C) Ans.
5 FDC = 10.0 kN (C); FDE = 8.00 kN (C);
FCE = 34.2 kN (T); FCB = 24.0 kN (C);
3 FEA = 24.0 kN (T); FEB = 12.0 kN (C);
+ c Fy = 0; B y - 12.0 - 30.0a b = 0 B y = 30.0 kN
5 FBA = 30.0 kN (C)

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3–18. Determine the force in members ED, BD and BC 6 kN

of the truss and indicate if the members are in tension or
compression. 6 kN E D

3m

C
A B
3m 3m
8 kN
Solution

Support Reactions. Referring to the FBD of the entire truss, Fig. a

+ F = 0;
S 6 - Cx = 0 Cx = 6.00 kN
x

a + M A = 0; Cy (6) - 6(3) - 8(3) = 0 Cy = 7.00 kN

Method of Sections. Consider the FBD of right segment of the truss sectioned
through a–a, Fig. b,

+ c Fy = 0; 7.00 - FBD = 0 FBD = 7.00 kN (T) Ans.

a + M D = 0; 7.00(3) - 6.00(3) - FBC (3) = 0 FBC = 1.00 kN (T) Ans.

a+ M B = 0; 7.00(3) - FED (3) = 0 FED = 7.00 kN (C) Ans.

Ans:
FBD = 7.00 kN (T); FBC = 1.00 kN (T);
FED = 7.00 kN (C)

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3–19. Determine the force in members JK, JN, and CD. J

State if the members are in tension of compression. Identify
all the zero-force members. K I
L 6m
H
M N O G
F
A
B C D E
6m 9m 6m

Solution 10 kN 10 kN
Reactions:
! X  0, !  10 kN, &Y  10 kN
Y
a  ; -*  0; &#$(6)  10(4.5) 10(10.5)  0
&#$  10 kN (T) Ans.

 C ; &Y  0; *Y  0 6m 9m 6m
Ay = 10 kN 10 kN 10 kN Fy = 10 kN
 ; &X  0; *X  10  0;
 *X  10 kN

Joint J:

A ; &Y  0; &*. sin 23.39°  10 sin 29.74°  0 6m

&*.  12.5 kN (T) Ans.

1 ; &X  0; &*+ 12.5 cos 23.39° 10 cos 29.74°  0

6m 4.5 m
10 kN 10 kN

&*+  20.2 kN (C) Ans.

Members KN, NL, MB, BL, CL, IO, OH, GE, EH, HD
are zero force members. Ans.
10 kN

Ans:
FCD = 10.0 kN (T); FJN = 12.5 kN (T);
FJK = 20.2 kN (C);
Members KN, NL, MB, BL, CL, IO, OH, GE, EH,
HD are zero force members.

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*3–20. Determine the force in members GF, FC, and CD

of the cantilever truss. State if the members are in tension or 12 kN
compression. Assume all members are pin connected. E
12 kN
F
12 kN 3m
G

A
B C D
2m 2m 2m

Solution
a+ ΣMC = 0; 12 kN (cos 26.57° 2 14 m2 + 12 kN 1cos 26.57° 2 12 m2
- 12 kN 1sin 26.57° 2 11 m2 - FGF sin 26.57° 14 m2 = 0
FGF = 33.0 kN 1T 2 Ans.

a+ ΣMA = 0; - 12 kN 12.236 m2 + FFC 14 m2 = 0

FFC = 6.71 kN 1T 2 Ans.

a+ ΣMF = 0; 12 kN 12.236 m2 + 12 kN 122 12.236 m2 - FCD 12 m2 = 0

FCD = 40.2 kN 1C 2 Ans.

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3–21. Determine the force in members FG, GD, CD and 4 kN

GA of the truss. State if the members are in tension or E
compression.
2m

4 kN F D

2m

4 kN G
C

Solution
2m
Support Reactions. Not required.
B
Method of Sections. Consider the FBD of the upper segment of the truss sectioned A
through a–a, Fig. a
3m
a+ M D = 0; 4(2) - FFG(1.5) = 0 FFG = 5.333 kN (C) = 5.33 kN (C) Ans.
3
a+ M E = 0; FGD a b(4) - 4(2) = 0 FGD = 3.333 kN (C) = 3.33 kN (C) Ans.
5
4
a+ M G = 0; 4(4) + 4(2) - FCD a b(3) = 0 FCD = 10.0 kN (T) Ans.
5

Method of Joints

Joint G. Fig. b
4
+ c Fy = 0; FGA - 5.333 - 3.333a b = 0 FGA = 8.00 kN (C) Ans.
5

Ans:
FFG = 5.33 kN (C); FGD = 3.33 kN (C);
FCD = 10.0 kN (T); FGA = 8.00 kN (C)

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3–22. Determine the force in members HG, HC, HB 3 kN

and AB of the truss. State if the members are in tension or
3 kN
compression. Assume all members are pin connected. I
3 kN
H
3 kN
4m G

A
E
B C D

Solution 2m 2m 2m 2m

Support Reactions. Referring to the FBD of the entire truss, Fig. a

a+ ME = 0; 3(2) + 3(4) + 3(6) + 3(8) - NA(8) = 0 NA = 7.50 kN

Method of Joints. By inspecting joint B, we notice that member HB is a zero-force

member. Thus

FHB = 0 Ans.

Method of Sections. Consider the FBD of the left segment of the truss sectioned
through a–a, Fig. b

a+ M H = 0; FAB (3) + 3(2) - 7.50(2) = 0 FAB = 3.00 kN (T) Ans.

3
a+ M E = 0; 3(6) + 3(8) - 7.50(8) + FHC a b(4) = 0
213
FHC = 5.408 kN (T) = 5.41 kN (T) Ans.

1
a+ M C = 0; FHG a b(4) + 3(2) + 3(4) - 7.50(4) = 0
25
FHG = 6.708 kN (C) = 6.71 kN (C) Ans.

Ans:
FHB = 0; FAB = 3.00 kN (T)
FHC = 5.41 kN (T)
FHG = 6.71 kN (C)

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3–23. Determine the force in members GF, GC, HC and 3 kN

BC of the truss. State if the members are in tension or
compression. Assume all members are pin connected. 3 kN
I
3 kN
H
3 kN
4m G

A
E
B C D

Solution 2m 2m 2m 2m

Support Reactions. Referring to the FBD of the entire truss, Fig. a

+ Fx = 0;
S Ex = 0

a+ M A = 0; Ey (8) - 3(2) - 3(4) - 3(6) = 0 Ey = 4.50 kN

Method of Joints.

Joint G, Fig. b

+ Q Fy = 0; FGC cos u - 3 cos u = 0 FGC = 3.00 kN (C) Ans.

Method of Sections. Consider the FBD of right segment of the truss sectioned
through b–b, Fig. c.

a+ M H = 0; 4.50(6) - 3(4) - 3.00(2) - FBC(3) = 0

FBC = 3.00 kN (T) Ans.

1
a+ M C = 0; 4.50(4) - 3(2) - FGF a b(4) = 0
15
FGF = 6.708 kN (C) = 6.71 kN (C) Ans.

3
a+ M E = 0; 3(2) + 3.00(4) - FHC a b(4) = 0
213
Ans:
FHC = 5.408 kN (T) = 5.41 kN (T) Ans.
FGC = 3.00 kN (C); FBC = 3.00 kN (T)
FGF = 6.71 kN (C); FHC = 5.41 kN (T)

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*3–24. Specify the type of compound truss and determine

the force in members JH, BJ, and BI. State if the members
are in tension or compression. The internal angle between 6m
any two members is 60°. The truss is pin supported at A and C D
roller supported at F. Assume all members are pin
connected. 3m

3m
B J K E

3m

A F
I H G

3m 3m 3m 3m

15 kN 10 kN 10 kN

Solution

c+ ΣMC = 0; 18.13(3) – FIH (5.196) = 0; FIH = 10.46 kN (T)

10.46 kN
10.46 kN
c+ ΣMD = 0; 18.13(9) – 15(6) – 10.46(5.196) – FJH cos 30°(6) = 0 20.93 kN
8.66 kN
FJH = 3.61 kN (T) Ans 15 kN

Joint A:

+ c ΣFy = 0; FAB = 18.125 = 20.93 kN (C)

sin 60°
+
S ΣF = 0; FAI = 20.93(cos 60°) = 10.46 kN (T) 6m
x

Joint I:
a+ ΣFy = 0; –FIBcos 30° + 10.46(cos 30°) + 15(cos 60°) – 10.46(cos 30°) = 0

FIB = 8.66 kN (T) Ans

3 mm
Joint B:
18.125 kN 15 kN 18.125 kN

a+ ΣFx = 0; 8.66(cos 30°) – FBJ (cos 30°) = 0

FBJ = 8.66 kN (C) Ans

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3–25. Determine the forces in members JI, JD, and DE of 30 kN

20 kN
the truss. State if the members are in tension or compression. 15 kN 15 kN
10 kN
5 kN 5 kN
L K J I H G
A
F 3@1m3m
B
C E
D
6 @ 3 m  18 m

Solution
Entire truss
+ Fx = 0;
S Ax = 0

a+ M A = 0; - 15(3) - 15(6) - 30(9) - 20(12) - 10(15) - 5(18) + Gy (18) = 0

Gy = 49.17 kN

+ c Fy = 0; A y - 5 - 15 - 15 - 30 - 20 - 10 - 5 + 49.17 = 0
A y = 50.833 kN

Section

a+ M E = 0; - FJI(2) - 10(3) - 5(6) + 49.17(6) = 0

FJI = 117.5 kN (C) Ans.

a+ M J = 0; - 20(3) - 10(6) - 5(9) + 49.17(9)

- FDE cos 18.43(2) - FDE sin 18.43(3) = 0
FDE = 97.5 kN (T) Ans.

Joint D

S+ Fx = 0; 97.5 cos 18.43 - FCD cos 18.43 = 0

FCD = 97.5 kN (T)

+ c Fy = 0; 2(97.5 sin 18.43) - FJD = 0

FJD = 61.7 kN (C) Ans.

Ans:
FJI = 117.5 kN (C); FDE = 97.5 kN (T)
FJD = 61.7 kN (C)

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3–26. Determine the force in members IH, BC, and BH of

the bridge truss. Solve for each unknown using a single
equation of equilibrium. State if the members are in tension H G
or compression. Assume all members are pin connected.
2m
I F
2m
A
B C D E

2m 2m 2m 2m 2m 2m 2m 2m

Solution 3 kN 3 kN
4 kN
Reactions due to symmetry,

Ax = 0, Ay = Ey = 5 kN

a+ ΣMB = 0; - 5(4) + FIH sin 26.75°(6) = 0

FIH = 7.45 kN (C) Ans.

a+ ΣMH = 0; - 5(6) + 3(2) + FBC(4) = 0

FBC = 6.0 kN (T) Ans.

a+ ΣMO = 0; 5(2) - 3(6) + FBH sin 63.43°(6) = 0 5 kN 3 kN 5 kN

3 kN 4 kN
FBH = 1.49 kN (T) Ans.

or
+ c ΣFy = 0; 5 - 3 - 7.45(sin 26.56°) + FBH (sin 63.43°) = 0

FBH = 1.49 kN (T) Check 2m

2m

2m 4m 2m
5 kN 3 kN

Ans:
FIH = 7.45 kN (C); FBC = 6.0 kN (T)
FBH = 1.49 kN (T);

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3–27. Determine the force in members GF, FB, and BC 3 kN

of the Fink truss and state if the members are in tension or
compression. 4 kN F 4 kN

G E

30 60 60 30

A D
B C
3m 3m 3m

3 kN

4 kN 4 kN

Solution
Support Reactions: Due to symmetry, $Y  !Y.
 C ; &Y  0;
3m 3m 3m
2!Y 4 3 4  0 !Y  5.5 kN

 ; &X  0;
 !X  0 4 kN
2
Method of Sections: 3 cos 30° m

a  ; -"  0; &'& sin 30°(3)  4(3 3 cos2 30°) 5.5(3)  0

4.5 tan 30° m

&'&  9 kN (C) Ans.

a  ; -!  0; &&" sin 60°(3) 4(3 cos2 30°)  0 3m 1.5 m

Ay = 5.5 kN
&&"  3.464 kN (T)  3.46 kN (T) Ans.

a  ; -&  0; &"# (4.5 tan 30°)  4(4.5 3 cos2 30°) 5.5(4.5)  0

&"#  6.062 kN (T)  6.06 kN (T) Ans.

Ans:
FGF = 9 kN (C); FFB = 3.46 kN (T)
FBC = 6.06 kN (T)

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*3–28. Determine the force in members GF, CF, and CD 1.5 kN

of the roof truss and indicate if the members are in tension
or compression. C
2 kN

D 1.5 m
B

A E
H G F
1m
2m 2m

Solution
a+ ΣMA = 0; Ey(4) - 2(0.8) - 1.5(2.50) = 0 Ey = 1.3375 kN

Method of Sections:

a+ ΣMF = 0; 1.3375(2) - FGF(1.5) = 0

FGF = 1.78 kN 1T 2 Ans.

3
a+ ΣMF = 0; 1.3375(1) - FCDa b(1) = 0
5

FCD = 2.23 kN 1C 2 Ans.

1.5
a+ ΣME = 0; FCFa b(1) = 0 FCF = 0 Ans.
23.25

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3–29. Determine the force in members IH, ID, and 10 m, 5 @ 2 m

CD of the truss. State if the members are in tension or
compression. Assume all members are pin connected. 3 kN 3 kN 3 kN 3 kN
1.5 kN
K J I H G
F

E
5m D
C
B
A
Solution
Referring to the FBD of the right segment of the truss sectioned through a@a, Fig. a

a + M D = 0; FIH(2) - 3(2) - 1.5(4) = 0

FIH = 6.00 kN (T) Ans.

1
a + M F = 0; 3(2) + 3(4) - FID a b(6) = 0
22
FID = 4.243 kN (T) = 4.24 kN (T) Ans.

1
a + M I = 0; FCD a b(6) - 3(2) - 3(4) - 1.5(6) = 0
25
FCD = 10.06 kN = 10.1 kN (C) Ans.

Ans:
FIH = 6.00 kN (T); FID = 4.24 kN (T)
FCD = 10.1 kN (C)

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3–30. Determine the force in members JI, IC, and CD of 10 m, 5 @ 2 m

the truss. State if the members are in tension or compression.
Assume all members are pin connected. 3 kN 3 kN 3 kN 3 kN
1.5 kN
K J I H G
F

E
5m D
C
B
A
Solution
Consider the FBD of the right segment of the truss sectioned through a@a, Fig. a

a + M C = 0; FJI(3) - 3(2) - 3(4) - 1.5(6) = 0

FJI = 9.00 kN (T) Ans.

a + M F = 0; 3(6) + 3(4) + 3(2) - FIC (6) = 0

FIC = 6.00 kN (C) Ans.

1
a + M I = 0; FCD a b(6) - 1.5(6) - 3(4) - 3(2) = 0
25
FCD = 10.06 kN (C) = 10.1 kN (C) Ans.

Ans:
FJI = 9.00 kN (T); FIC = 6.00 kN (C)
FCD = 10.1 kN (C)

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3–31. Determine the forces in members GH, HC, and G

BC of the truss. State if the members are in tension or
H F
compression. Assume all members are pin connected.
4.5 m
3m
A E
B C D

3 kN
6 kN
9 kN
12 m, 4 @ 3 m

Solution
Support Reactions. Referring to the FBD of the entire truss, Fig. a

a+ M E = 0; 3(3) + 9(6) + 6(9) - A y (12) = 0 A y = 9.75 kN

+ Fx = 0;
S Ax = 0

Method of Sections. Consider the FBD of the left segment of the truss section
through a@a, Fig. b

a+ M H = 0; FBC(3) - 9.75(3) = 0 FBC = 9.75 kN (T) Ans.

a+ M 0 = 0; 9.75(3) - 6(6) + FHC sin 45 (9) = 0

FHC = 1.061 kN (C) = 1.06 kN (C) Ans.

1
a+ MC = 0; FGH a b(9) + 6(3) - 9.75(6) = 0
15

1 2
FGH a b(3) + FGH a b(3) + 6(3) - 9.75(6) = 0
15 15

FGH = 10.06 kN (C) = 10.1 kN (C) Ans.

Ans:
FBC = 9.75 kN (T); FHC = 1.06 kN (C)
FGH = 10.1 kN (C)

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*3–32. Determine the forces in all the members of the

complex truss. State if the members are in tension or E
3 kN
compression. Hint: Substitute member AD with one placed
between E and C. 30 30 D
F

Solution
4m
Si = SB + x1si 2

FEC = S′EC + 1x2SEC = 0

C
A
3.740 + x10.5262 = 0 45 45
x = 7.109

Thus:
B
FAF = SAF + 1x2SAF 2m 2m

= 6.866 + 17.1092 1 - 1.412

= -3.188 kN

FAF = 3.2 kN 1C 2 Ans.

In a similar manner:

FAB = 2.9 kN 1C 2 Ans.

FEB = 4.1 kN 1T 2 Ans.

FBC = 2.9 kN 1C 2 Ans.

FEF = 2.4 kN 1C 2 Ans.

FCF = 2.9 kN 1T 2 Ans.

FCD = 8.0 kN 1C 2 Ans.

FED = 5.8 kN 1C 2 Ans.

FDA = 7.1 kN 1T 2 Ans.

3 kN
3* (C)
5.026* (T)

6.156* (C)
3.740* (T)
4m
6.866* (T)

3* 6* (C)

3.866*
4.243* (T) 4.243* (T)

3.866*

2m 2m

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3–33. Determine the forces in all the members of the L K J

lattice (complex) truss. State if the members are in tension
or compression. Substitute member JE by one placed
between K and F.
I H 4m

E
G F

2m

A D
Solution B C
2m 4m 2m
Superposition required:
2 kN 2 kN
′
SFK = S′FK + xsFK = 0
2 + x112 = 0

x = -2

Member Si′ si′ xsi′ Si

JH 0 -1.414 2.828 2.831T 2
JK 0 1.0 - 2.0 2.01C 2
DC 0 0 0 0 4m
DE - 2.0 0 0 2.01C 2
EC 1.414 0.7071 - 1.414 0
EH -1.414 - 0.7071 1.414 0
CF 1.414 - 0.7071 1.414 2.831T 2 2m
CB 0 1.0 - 2.0 2.01C 2
AG - 2.0 0 0 2.01C 2
AB 0 0 0 0 2m 4m 2m
BG 1.414 0.7071 - 1.414 0
BF 1.414 -0.7071 1.414 2.831T 2
GI -1.414 - 0.7071 1.414 0
GL 0 1.0 - 2.0 2.01C 2
LK 0 1.0 -2.0 2.01C 2
LI 0 - 1.414 2.828 2.831T 2
IF 0 - 1.414 2.828 2.831T 2
IK - 1.414 - 0.7071 1.414 0
HF 0 - 1.414 2.828 2.831T 2
HK -1.414 -0.7071 1.414 0
JE 0 1.0 - 2.0 2.01C 2 Ans.

Ans:
FJH = 2.83 kN (T); FJK = 2.0 kN (C)
FDC = 0; FDE = 2.0 kN (C); FEC = 0
FEH = 0; FCF = 2.83 kN (T); FCB = 2.0 kN (C)
FAG = 2.0 kN (C); FAB = 0; FBG = 0
FBF = 2.83 kN (T); FGI = 0; FGL = 2.0 kN (C)
FFK = 2.0 kN (C); FLI = 2.83 kN (T)
FIF = 2.83 kN (T); FIK = 0; FHF = 2.83 kN (T)
FHK = 0; FJE = 2.0 kN (C)

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4 kN 4 kN
3–34. Determine the force in each member and state if the
members are in tension or compression. 1m 1m 1m
E D

1m

F
C

2m

Solution
A B
Reactions

A x = 0, A y = 4.00 kN, B y = 4.00 kN

Joint A
+ Fx = 0;
S FAD = 0 Ans.

+ c Fy = 0; 4.00 - FAF = 0; FAF = 4.00 kN (C) Ans.

Joint F

a + Fy = 0; 4.00 sin 45 - FFD sin 18.43 = 0

FFD = 8.944 kN = 8.94 kN (T) Ans.

+ Q Fx = 0; 4.00 cos 45 + 8.94 cos 18.43 - FFE = 0

FFE = 11.313 kN = 11.3 kN (C) Ans.

Due to symmetrical loading and geometry

FBC = 4.00 kN (C) FCE = 8.94 kN (T) Ans.

FBE = 0 FCD = 11.3 kN (C) Ans.

Joint E
+ Fx = 0;
S - FED + 8.944 cos 26.56 + 11.31 cos 45 = 0

FED = 16.0 kN (C) Ans.

+ c Fy = 0; - 4 - 8.944 sin 26.56 + 11.31 sin 45 = 0 (Check)

Ans:
FAD = 0; FAF = 4.00 kN (C); FFD = 8.94 kN (T)
FFE = 11.3 kN (C); FBC = 4.00 kN (C)
FCE = 8.94 kN (T); FBE = 0; FCD = 11.3 kN (C)
FED = 16.0 kN (C)

106
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3–35. Determine the forces in all the members of the 3 kN

complex truss. State if the members are in tension or
compression. Hint: Substitute member AB with one placed 2m
B C D
between C and E.
1m

G H

2m

A
F E
Solution
S i = S i + x ( si ) 3m 1m 3m


FCE = S CE + (x)sCE = 0

3.04 + x(0.779) = 0

x = -3.905

Thus:

FAB = 3.90 kN (C) Ans.

FBC = 2.50 kN (C) Ans.

FCD = 2.50 kN (C) Ans.

FBG = FGF = FGH = FCH = FHE = 0 Ans.

Ans:
FAB = 3.90 kN (C); FBC = 2.50 kN (C)
FCD = 2.50 kN (C)
FBG = FGF = FGH = FCH = FHE = 0

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*3–36. Determine the force in the members of the space z

truss, and state whether they are in tension or compression.
2m
C
D
2m
2m 3 kN

B 5 kN

A
2m

x
y
Solution
Support Reactions. Not required

Method of Joints

Joint D, Fig. a
1 1
Fx = 0; FDA a b - FDB a b = 0 (1)
18 18

2 2
Fy = 0; -FDA a b - FDB a b - FDC + 3 = 0 (2)
18 18

1.732 1.732
Fz = 0; -FDA a b - FDB a b - 5 = 0 (3)
18 18

Solving Eqs (1), (2) and (3)

FDA = FDB = - 4.082 kN = 4.08 kN (C) Ans.
FDC = 8.774 kN = 8.77 kN (T) Ans.

Joint B, Fig. b
1.732
Fz = 0; FBC sin 60 - 4.082a b = 0
18
FBC = 2.887 kN = 2.89 kN (T) Ans.

1
Fx = 0; FBA + 2.887 cos 60 - 4.082a b = 0
18
FBA = 0 Ans.
2
Fy = 0; -By - 4.082a b = 0 By = - 2.887 kN
18

Joint A, Fig. c

1.732
Fz = 0; FAC sin 60 - 4.082a b = 0
18
FAC = 2.887 kN = 2.89 kN (T) Ans.

1
Fx = 0; Ax + 4.082a b - 2.887 cos 60 = 0 Ax = 0
18

2
Fy = 0; -A y - 4.082a b = 0 A y = - 2.887 kN
18

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3–37. Determine the force in members AB, AD, and AC of z

the space truss. Indicate if the members are in tension or 0.75 m
compression.
0.75 m

D
1m
C

A Py = 2 kN
B
y
Solution x 4m

Joint A: Pz = 3 kN
ΣFz = 0; FAD sin 14.04° - 3 = 0
FAD = 12.37 kN 1T 2 = 12.4 kN (T)

ΣFx = 0; FAB = FAC

ΣFy = 0; 2 + 2FAB sin 79.38° - 12.37 cos 14.04° = 0

FAB = 5.087 kN 1C 2 = 5.09 kN 1C 2
FAC = 5.087 kN 1C 2 = 5.09 kN 1C 2

Ans:
FAD = 12.4 kN (T); FAB = 5.09 kN (C)
FAC = 5.09 kN (C)

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3–38. Determine the force in each member of the space z

truss and state if the members are in tension or compression. 1m
The truss is supported by ball-and socket joints at C, D, E, 1m G
and G. Note: Although this truss is indeterminate to the first
degree, a solution is possible due to symmetry of geometry
and loading.
E A

2m D F  3 kN

C
Solution x
2m B
2 2 4
(M EG)x = 0; FBC(2) + FBD(2) - (3)(2) = 0
25 25 5
1.5 m y
FBC + FBD = 2.683 kN

Due to symmetry: FBC = FBD = 1.342 = 1.34 kN (C) Ans.

Joint A
4
Fz = 0; FAB - (3) = 0
5
FAB = 2.4 kN (C) Ans.

Fx = 0; FAG = FAE

3 3 3
Fy = 0; (3) - FAE - FAG = 0
5 25 25
FAG = FAE = 1.01 kN (T) Ans.

Joint B
1 1 1 1
Fx = 0; (1.342) + F - (1.342) - FBG = 0
25 3 BE 25 3

2 2 2 2
Fy = 0; (1.342) - F + (1.342) - FBG = 0
25 3 BE 25 3

2 2
Fz = 0; F + FBG - 2.4 = 0
3 BE 3
FBG = 1.80 kN (T) Ans.
FBE = 1.80 kN (T) Ans.

Ans:
FBC = FBD = 1.34 kN (C); FAB = 2.4 kN (C)
FAG = FAE = 1.01 kN (T); FBG = 1.80 kN (T)
FBE = 1.80 kN (T)

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3–39. Determine the force in members FE and ED of z

the space truss and state if the members are in tension or
compression. The truss is supported by a ball-and-socket
joint at C and short links at A and B. G 4 kN

F 3m
D
E

Solution C

Method of Joints A 3m
1.5 m
Joint F. Here FFG, FFD and FFC lie on the same plane shown shaded in B
0.75 m 1m y
Fig. a and the x axis is the normal to this plane, thus
x 0.75 m
Fx = 0; FFE cos u = 0 FFE = 0 Ans.

Joint E. Here, FEG, FEF, FEC and FEB lie on the same plane shown shaded in Fig. b
and the x axis is the normal to this plane, thus

Fx = 0; FED cos u = 0 FED = 0 Ans.

Ans:
FFE = 0; FED = 0

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*3–40. Determine the force in members GD, GE, GF z

and FD of the space truss and state if the members are in
tension or compression.
G 4 kN

F 3m
D
E

Solution C

Support Reactions. Not required A 3m

1.5 m
Method of Joints B
0.75 m 1m y
Joint G. Fig. a x 0.75 m

1 1 1.5
Fx = 0; FGD a b - FGE a b + FGF a b = 0 (1)
137.5625 137.5625 138.8125
0.75 0.75 0.75
Fy = 0; - FGD a b - FGE a b - FGF a b + 4 = 0 (2)
137.5625 137.5625 138.8125
6 6 6
Fz = 0; -FGD a b + FGE a b + FGF a b = 0 (3)
137.5625 137.5625 138.8125

Solving Eqs (1), (2) and (3),

FGF = 0 Ans.

FGD = 16.34 kN (T) = 16.3 kN (T) Ans.

FGE = 16.34 kN (C) = 16.3 kN (C) Ans.

Joint F. Referring to Fig. b, we notice that FFG, FFC and FFE lie in the same plane
(shown shaded) and x' axis is the normal to this plane. Thus

Fx = 0; FFD cos u = 0 FFD = 0 Ans.

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3–41. Determine the force in each member of the space z

truss and state if the members are in tension or compression.
Hint: the support reaction at E acts along member EB. Why? 2m
E
B

5m
3m
C

3m

A
D y

x 4m
6 kN
Solution
Method of Joints: In this case, the support reactions are not required for determin-
ing the member forces.

Joint A

5
ΣFx = 0; FABa b - 6 = 0
229 Ans.
FAB = 6.462 kN 1T 2 = 6.46 kN 1T 2

3 3
ΣFx = 0; FACa b - FADa b = 0 FAC = FAD [1]
5 5
4 4 2
ΣFy = 0; FACa b + FADa b - 6.462a b = 0
5 5 229
FAC + FAD = 3.00 [2]

Solving Eqs. [1] and [2] yields

FAC = FAD = 1.50 kN 1C 2 Ans.

Joint B

3 3
ΣFx = 0; FBCa b - FBDa b = 0 FBC = FBD [1]
238 238
5 5 5
ΣFx = 0; FBCa b + FBDa b - 6.462a b = 0
238 238 229
FBC + FBD = 7.397 [2]

Solving Eqs. [1] and [2] yields

FBC = FBD = 3.699 kN 1C 2 = 3.70 kN 1C 2 Ans.

2 2
ΣFy = 0; 2c 3.699a b d + 6.462a b - FBE = 0
238 229 Ans.
FBE = 4.80 kN 1T 2

Note: The support reactions at supports C and D can be determined by analyzing

joints C and D, respectively using the results obtained above.

Ans:
FAB = 6.46 kN (T); FAC = FAD = 1.50 kN (C)
FBC = FBD = 3.70 kN (C); FBE = 4.80 kN (T)

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3–42. Determine the force in members AB, CD, ED, and E

CF of the space truss and state if the members are in tension
or compression. D

2m 2m
2m
F
A C

3m 2m
B 2k kN

2k kN

Solution
Method of Joints: In this case, the support reactions are not required for determin-
ing the member forces.

Joint C: Since FCD, FBC and 2 kN force lie within the same plane and FCF is out of
this plane, then

FCF = 0 Ans.

ΣFz = 0; FCD sin 60° - 2 = 0

FCD = 2.309 kN 1T 2 = 2.31 kN 1T 2 Ans.

ΣFx = 0; 2.309 cos 60° - FBC = 0 FBC = 1.154 kN 1C 2

Joint D: Since FCD, FDE and FDE lie within the same plane and FDB is out of this
plane, then FDB = 0.

1
ΣFx = 0; FDFa b - 2.309 cos 60° = 0
213
FDF = 4.163 kN 1C 2

3
ΣFy = 0; 4.163a b - FED = 0
213
FED = 3.46 kN 1T 2 Ans.

Joint B:
1.732
ΣFz = 0; FBEa b - 2 = 0 FBE = 4.163 kN 1T 2
213
3
ΣFy = 0; FAB - 4.163a b = 0
213
FAB = 3.46 kN 1C 2 Ans.

Ans:
FCF = 0; FCD = 2.31 kN (T); FED = 3.46 kN (T)
FAB = 3.46 kN (C)

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3–43. Determine the force in members BE, DF, and BC of E

the space truss and state if the members are in tension or
D
compression.
2m 2m
2m
F
A C

2m
Solution 3m
B 2k kN
Method of Joints: In this case, the support reactions are not required for determin-
ing the member forces. 2k kN

Joint C:

ΣFz = 0; FCD sin 60° - 2 = 0 FCD = 2.309 kN 1T 2

ΣFx = 0; 2.309 cos 60° - FBC = 0

FBC = 1.154 kN 1C 2 = 1.15 kN 1C 2 Ans.

Joint D: Since FCD, FDE and FDF lie within the same plane and FDB is out of this
plane, then FDB = 0.

1
ΣFx = 0; FDFa b - 2.309 cos 60° = 0
213
FDF = 4.16 kN 1C 2 Ans.

Joint B:
1.732
ΣFz = 0; FBEa b - 2 = 0
213
FBE = 4.16 kN 1T 2 Ans.

Ans:
FBC = 1.15 kN (C); FDF = 4.16 kN (C)
FBE = 4.16 kN (T)

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3–1P. Determine
3–1P. The Pratt roof trussesinare
the force uniformly
each memberspaced
of the every
truss.
5 m. The
State if thedeck, roofing
members are material,
in tensionand the purlins have
or compression. an
Assume 1.8 m
G
average
all weight
members are of
pin0.28 kN/m2. The building is located in
connected.
New York where the anticipated snow load is 1.0 kN/m2 and
the anticipated ice load is 0.4 kN/m2. These loadings occur
H F 1.8 m
over the horizontal projected area of the roof. Determine
the force in each member due to dead load, snow, and ice A
loads. Neglect the weight of the truss members and assume B C D E
A is pinned and E is a roller.
2.4 m 2.4 m 2.4 m 2.4 m

Solution
Loading:
At joints H, G and F: F = (1.0 + 0.4)(5)(2.4) + 0.28(5)(3) = 21 kN
At joints A and E: F = (1.0 + 0.4)(5)(1.2) + 0.28(5)(1.5) = 10.5 kN
Due to symmetrical loading and geometry
Ax = 0, Ay = 42 kN, Ey = 42 kN

Joint A:

 C ; &Y  0; 42 10.5 &!( 2 3  0;

3
5 10.5 kN
&!(  52.5 kN (C) Ans.

; &X  0; &!" 52.5 2 5 3  0;

4


&!"  42 kN (C) Ans. 42 kN
Joint B:

 ; &X  0; &"# 42  0;


&"#  42 kN (T) Ans.

 C ; &Y  0; &("  0 Ans.

Joint H:
21 kN
 A ; &Y  0; 21 cos 36.87°  &(# cos 16.26°  0;
&(#  17.5 kN (C) Ans.

 1 ; &X  0; 52.5 &(' 21 sin 36.87° 17.5 sin 16.26°  0; 52.5 kN

&('  35 kN (C) Ans.

Joint G:

; &X  0; 5 (35) 5 &'&  0;

4 4



&'&  35 kN (C) Ans. 21 kN

 C ; &Y  0;
3 3
(35)  (35) 21 &'#  0;
5 5
&'#  21 kN (T) Ans. 35 kN

Due to symmetrical loading and geometry

FDE = FAB = 42 KN (T) Ans.

FDC = FBC = 42 KN (T) Ans.

FEF = FAH = 52.5 KN (C) Ans.

FBH = FDF = 0 Ans.

FHC = FFC = 17.5 KN (C) Ans.

116