If a beam is supported at both ends and a load is applied at the center, what is

Practice Questions

Q1
If a beam is supported at both ends and a load is applied at the center, what is the reaction force at each support?
  1. Equal to the load
  2. Half the load
  3. Double the load
  4. Zero

Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions

If a beam is supported at both ends and a load is applied at the center, what is the reaction force at each support?
  • Step 1: Understand that the beam is supported at both ends, which means there are two supports.
  • Step 2: Identify that a load is applied at the center of the beam.
  • Step 3: Realize that the load will cause the beam to bend, and the supports will need to push back to keep the beam in balance.
  • Step 4: Since the load is in the center, it is evenly distributed between the two supports.
  • Step 5: Calculate the reaction force at each support by dividing the total load by 2.
  • Step 6: Conclude that the reaction force at each support is equal to half of the load applied at the center.
  • Static Equilibrium – The beam is in static equilibrium, meaning the sum of forces and moments acting on it is zero.
  • Load Distribution – When a load is applied at the center of a simply supported beam, it is evenly distributed to the supports.
  • Reaction Forces – The reaction forces at the supports are equal and opposite to maintain equilibrium.
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