2.

EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

EQUILIBRIUM OF - CONCURRENT COPLANAR FORCE SYSTEMS

Definition:-
If a system of forces acting on a body, keeps the body in a
state of rest or in a state of uniform motion along a straight
line, then the system of forces is said to be in equilibrium.
ALTERNATIVELY, if the resultant of the force system is zero,
then, the force system is said to be in equilibrium.
 EQUILIBRIUM OF - CONCURRENT COPLANAR FORCE SYSTEMS

Conditions for Equilibrium :

A coplanar concurrent force system will be in equilibrium if it

satisfies the following two conditions:

i) ∑ Fx = 0; and ii) ∑ Fy = 0

i.e. Algebraic sum of components of all the forces of the system,

along two mutually perpendicular directions, is ZERO.

Y X
 Graphical conditions for Equilibrium

Triangle Law: If three forces are in equilibrium, then, they form a

closed triangle when represented in a Tip to Tail arrangement, as
shown in Fig 2.1
F2

F2
F3
F1
Fig 2.1
F3
F1
Polygonal Law: If more than three forces are in equilibrium,
then, they form a closed polygon when represented in a Tip to
Tail arrangement, as shown in Fig. 2.2. F4 F
3

F3 F2

F5

F
F1

2
F4 F1
Fig 2.2
F5
 LAMI’S
THEOREM
If a system of three forces is in equilibrium, then, each force of
the system is proportional to sine of the angle between the other
two forces (and constant of proportionality is the same for all the
forces). Thus, with reference to Fig.2.3, we have,

F3 α F2

F1
Fig. 2.3

Note: While using Lami’s theorem, all the three forces

should be either directed away or all directed towards the
point of concurrence.
 EQUILIBRIUM OF NON-CONCURRENT COPLANAR FORCE SYSTEM

When a body is in equilibrium, it has neither translatory nor

rotatory motion in any direction.

Thus the resultant force R and the resultant couple M are both
zero, and we have the equilibrium equations for two
dimensional force system

∑ F x = 0; ∑ Fy = 0 ∑M = 0

These requirements are both necessary and sufficient

conditions for equilibrium.
 SPACE DIAGRAMS & FREE BODY DIAGRAMS

Space Diagram (SPD) : The sketch showing the physical

conditions of the problem, like, the nature of supports
provided; size, shape and location of various bodies; forces
applied on the bodies, etc., is known as space diagram.

eg, Fig 2.4 is a space diagram

Weight of sphere = 0.5 kN,
Radius = 1m
Cable
3m θ
P = 2kN
30°

Sphere
wall
Fig. 2.4 SPD
Free Body Diagram (FBD) :

It is an isolated diagram of the body being analyzed (called

free body), in which, the body is shown freed from all its
supports and contacting bodies/surfaces. Instead of the
supports and contacting bodies/surfaces, the reactive
forces exerted by them on the free body is shown, along
with all other applied forces.
 A Few Guidelines for Drawing
FBD
1) Tensile Force: It is a force trying to pull or extend the body. It
is represented by a vector directed away from the body.

2) Compressive Force: It is force trying to push or contract the

body. It is represented by a vector directed towards the body.

3) Reactions at smooth surfaces: The reactions of smooth

surfaces, like walls, floors, Inclined planes, etc. will be normal to
the surface and pointing towards the body.

4)Forces in Link rods/connecting rods: These forces will be

acting along the axis of the rod, either towards or away from the
body. (They are either compressive or tensile in nature).
5) Forces in Cables (Strings or Chords): These can only be
tensile forces. Thus, these forces will be along the cable and
directed away from the body.
 Free Body Diagrams of the sphere shown in Fig. 2.4

T = Tension in the cable

θ Rw = Reaction of the wall
T P = 2kN

30° W = self weight of the sphere

Rw
Sphere
P = external load acting on
the sphere

Detach the sphere from all contacts

W=0.5kN
Fig. 2.5 F B D of Sphere
and replace that with forces like:
Cable contact is replaced by the
force tension = T
Contact with the smooth wall is
replaced by the reaction Rw.
Supports: A structure is subjected to external forces and
transfers these forces through the supports on to the
foundation. Therefore the support reactions and the external
forces together keep the structure in equilibrium.

There are different types of supports.

a) Roller Support
b) Hinged or pinned support
c) Fixed or built in support
 Supports

Types of Supports Action on body

(a) Flexible cable ,belt ,chain, rope

BODY
BODY T

Force exerted by cable is

always a tension away from
the body in the direction of
cable
(b) Smooth surfaces
900

900 F
F

Contact forces are normal to

the surfaces
 Supports

(c) Roller
support

Contact force is normal to the

A surface on which the roller moves.
The reaction will always be
perpendicular to the plane of the
roller . Roller support will offer only
one independent reaction
component. (Whose direction is
known.)
 Supports

(d) pinned Support / hinged support

A Rh A
θ
Rv
R

This support does not allow any translatory movement of

the rigid body. There will be two independent reaction
components at the support. The resultant reaction can be
resolved into two mutually perpendicular components. Or it
can be shown as resultant reaction inclined at an angle with
respect to a reference direction.
 Supports

(e) Fixed or Built-in Support

RAH
M
A
A

RAV

This type of support not only prevents the translatory

movement of the rigid body, but also the rotation of the rigid
body. Hence there will be 3 independent reaction
components of forces. Hence there will be 3 unknown
components of forces, two mutually perpendicular reactive
force component and a reactive moment as shown in the
figure.
 TYPES OF BEAMS

A member which is subjected to predominantly transverse

loads and supported in such a way that rigid body motion is
prevented is known as beam. It is classified based on the
support conditions. A beam generally supported by a hinge or
roller at the ends having one span (distance between the
support) is called as simply supported beam. A beam which is
fixed at one end and free at another end is called as a
cantilever beam.

A B A B

span
span

(a) Simply supported beam

TYPES OF BEAMS

A B

span
RH M
A B
Rv

(b) Cantilever beam

 TYPES OF BEAMS

If one end or both ends of the beam project beyond

the support it is known as overhanging beam.

A B

A B

(c) Overhanging beam

(right overhang)
Statically determinate beam

Using the equations of equilibrium given in Eq. 2.1,if all

the reaction components can be found out, then the
beam is a statically determinate beam

the equations of equilibrium

∑ Fx = 0; ∑ Fy = 0 ∑M
=0
 FRICTION

Friction is defined as the contact resistance exerted by one

body upon another body when one body moves or tends to
move past another body. This force which opposes the
movement or tendency of movement is known as frictional
resistance or friction. Friction is due to the resistance offered
by minute projections at the contact surfaces. Hence friction is
the retarding force, always opposite to the direction of motion.
Friction has both advantages & disadvantages.

Disadvantages ---- Power loss, wear and tear etc.

Advantages ---- Brakes, traction for vehicles etc.

 FRICTION

W
P

F (Friction)
N Hills & Vales Magnified Surface

Frictional resistance is dependent on the amount of wedging

action between the hills and vales of contact surfaces. The
wedging action is dependent on the normal reaction N.
 FRICTION

Frictional resistance has the remarkable property of

adjusting itself in magnitude of force producing or
tending to produce the motion so that the motion is
prevented.

When P = 0, F = 0 block under equilibrium

When P increases, F also increases proportionately to

maintain equilibrium. However there is a limit beyond
which the magnitude of this friction cannot increase.
 FRICTION

When the block is on the verge of motion(motion of the

block is impending) F attains maximum possible value,
which is termed as Limiting Friction. When the applied
force is less than the limiting friction, the body remains at
rest and such frictional resistance is called the static friction.

Further if P is increased, the value of F decreases rapidly

and then remains fairly a constant thereafter. However at
high speeds it tends to decrease. This frictional resistance
experienced by the body while in motion is known as
Dynamic friction OR Kinetic Friction.
 FRICTION

Sliding friction friction experienced

when a body slides over another surface.
Dynamic Friction
Rolling friction friction experienced by
a body when it rolls over a surface.
 FRICTION

W FαN
Fmax = μN
P
Where F max = Limiting Friction
N= Normal Reaction between the
Fmax contact surfaces
μ =Coefficient of friction
φ
R
N
Fmax
μ
N
=
Note : Static friction varies from zero to a maximum value. Dynamic
friction is fairly a constant.
 FRICTION
Angle of Friction
W
The angle between N & R depends
on the value of F.
P
This angle θ, between the resultant
R and the normal reaction N is
φ Fmax
termed as angle of friction.

As F increases, θ also increases and will N

R
reach to a maximum value of φ when F is
Fmax (limiting friction)

i.e. tanφ = (Fmax )/N = μ

Angle φ is known as Angle of limiting

Friction.
 FRICTION

Angle of limiting friction is defined as the angle between the

resultant reaction (of limiting friction and normal reaction) and
the normal to the plane on which the motion of the body is
impending.

Angle of repose
When granular material is heaped, there exists a limit for the
inclination of the surface. Beyond that angle, the grains start
rolling down. This limiting angle upto which the grains repose
(sleep) is called the angle of repose of the granular material.
 FRICTION

Significance of Angle of repose:

The angle that an inclined plane makes with the
horizontal, when the body supported on the plane is on
the verge of motion due to its self -weight is equal to
the angle of repose.
Angle of repose is numerically equal to Angle of
limiting friction
 FRICTION
Laws of dry friction

1. The magnitude of limiting friction bears a constant ratio

to the normal reaction between the two surfaces.
(Experimentally proved)

2. The force of friction is independent of the area of contact

between the two surfaces.

3. For low velocities the total amount of friction that can

be developed is practically independent of velocity.
It is less than the frictional force corresponding
to impending motion.
 (Q Numerical Problems & Solutions
2.1)
A sphere of 100N weight is tied to a wall by a string as shown
in Fig.Q2.1. Find the tension in the string and the reaction of
the wall.

15 0

Fig Q2.1
(Q Using Lami’s theorem,
2.1)
T
T
15
R 105
R
165
90
W

W FBD of sphere
(Q Numerical Problems & Solutions
2.2)
Determine the magnitude and nature of the forces in the
bars AB and AC shown in Fig.Q2.2. Neglect size and
weight of the pulley.

B
30
D A
60
C

40 kN

Fig. Q2.2
 (Q
2.2)

B FBD of 40kN weight

30
T
D T T A
60 T
C T
40 kN
40 kN

If the pulley is frictionless then tension

in the rope on either side of it is same
 (Q
2.2)

B FBD of joint A
30 FAB
D T T A 600
60 T T
C T 300

40 kN
FAC T
The AB and AC may be subjected to
either tension or compression
Hence initially assume one direction

Angle between F AB and F AC =

90 0
 (Q
2.2)
The joint A is under equilibrium and hence sum of all
forces acting at joint A is zero.
Taking F AC as X-axis and F AB as Y– axis

FAC is –ve , FAC is towards ‘A’, So it is Compressive.

FAB is +ve. F AB is towards ‘A’, So it is Tensile.

 (Q
2.3)
Two cylinders A & B of weight 400N and 200N respectively, rest
on smooth planes as shown in Fig.Q2.3. Find the force ‘P’
required for equilibrium.

A 60 P
15
B
60
45
Fig Q2.3
(Q
2.3) A 60 P
15

RA B
60

45 RB

60 Fig Q2.3
45

60 P
A
FAB
300 15 F 15
AB
B 45
RB

Weight
Weight
 (Q
2.3)
WA=400N Fig Q2.3b FBD OF ‘B’
Y
120 WB =200N
105
P
15
FBA
60
60
FAB 15 X
RA 135
45
RB
Fig Q2.3a FBD OF ‘A’
(Q
2.3)

Considering FBD of ‘A’ and Using Lami’s theorem,

 (Q Considering FBD of ‘B’, We have,
2.3)

-------Eqn(1)

-----------------Eqn(2)
Adding Eqn(1) and Eqn(2), We get,
 (Q
2.4)
Determine, the tension in the strings AB, BC, CD and
inclination of the segment CD to the vertical, in the system
shown in Fig Q2.4.

A
30
D
B θ
50 C

20 kN
30 kN
Fig Q2.4 SPD
 (Q
2.4)
TBA Y +VE
TCB TCD
30
160 50
θ
150 +VE
X
50 TBC
20 kN
30 kN
Fig Q2.4a FBD of Joint ‘B’
Fig Q2.4b FBD of Joint ‘C’
 (Q
2.4)
Considering FBD of Joint ‘C’, We have,

------Eqn (1)

------Eqn (2)

Dividing Eqn(1) by (2), we get,

(NOTE: For this FBD, if
we use Lami’s Theorem,
we have to expand
Sin(50+θ) and solve for
θ, which can take more
time.)
 (Q
2.5)
A wire is fixed at two points A and D as shown in Fig Q 2.5.
Determine inclination of the segment BC to the vertical and the
tension in all the segments.

A
30

D
B 60
θ C
20kN

25 kN
Fig Q2.5 SPD
 (Q
2.5)
TBA
(60+θ)
TCB TCD
30 (210- θ)
θ 60
150
120
(180- θ)
θ TBC
20 kN
30 kN
Fig Q2.5a FBD at Joint ‘B’

Fig Q2.5 FBD at Joint ‘C’

 (Q
2.5)

Considering FBD of Joint ‘B’ and Using Lami’s theorem,

---------Eqn(1)

------------Eqn(2)
 (Q
2.5)
Considering FBD of Joint ‘C’ and Using Lami’s theorem,

---------Eqn(3)

---------Eqn(4)
 (Q
2.5)
Equating R.H.S. of Eqns (1) and (3), we get,

(Continued in next slide)

 (Q
2.5)
(Continuation)
 (Q
2.6)
A beam AB of span 12m shown in the figure is hinged at A
and is on rollers at B. Determine the reactions at A and B for
the loading shown.

20kN 25kN 30kN

30 45
A ° ° B

4m 3m 3m 2m
 (Q
2.6)
Solution 25kN 30kN
FBD of Beam AB 20kN

30° 45°
HA
B
VA 3m 2m VB
4m 3m

∑ Fx = 0 H A – 25cos 30 – 30cos45 = 0
∑ Fy = 0 V A – 20 – 25 sin30 – 30sin45 +V B = 0
∑ MA = 0 -20×4 - 25 sin30×7 - 30 sin 45×10+ V B ×12=0
 (Q
2.6)
Solution 25kN 30kN
FBD of Beam AB 20kN

A 30° 45°
HA B

VA 25 sin 30 sin VB
30 45
4m 3m 3m 2m

∑ MA = 0
0 = -20×4 - 25 sin30×7 - 30 sin 45 ×10+ V B ×12
 (Q
2.6)
Solution(contd.)

HA=42.86kN, VA=22.07kN, VB=31.64kN

HA

RA VA

RA= 48.21 kN

α = 27.25°
 (Q
2.7)
Find the Support reactions for the given beam loaded as
shown in the figure.

0.5m 60kN 40kN/m

A B
2m

1m 60°
5m
 (Q
2.7)
Solution 40kN/m
HA 60kN
A RBH =RBCos30

C 30kNm B
VA FBD
60°
1m 2m 2m RB

RBv = R BCos60
∑ Fx = 0 HA + 60 – R B Cos30 = 0
∑ Fy = 0 VA + RB Cos60 – 40 x 2 = 0
∑ MA = 0 -30 - 40×2×4 + RB Cos60×5 = 0

HA
[Ans: RB=140kN V A=10 α
HA=61.24 RA= 62.05kN
RA
α = 9.3°] VA
 (Q
Find2.8)
the Support reactions for the given beam loaded as shown
in the figure.

30kN
0.5m 80kN/m

A 100kN
B

2m 1m 3m
 (Q
2.8)
Solutions

30kN 80kN/m
A
100kN
HA 15kNm B
VA 3m
2m 1m VB

FBD
 30kN 120kN
(Q FBD
2.8) 15kNm 1m
100kN
HA
A C B
2m VB
VA
6m

ΣFx = 0 HA + 100 = 0
∑ Fy = 0 VA + VB – 30 –120 = 0
∑ MA = 0 - 30×2 - 15 - (120)x5 + V Bx6 = 0

[ Ans: V B= 112.5kN V A =37.5kN HA= – 100kN HA

RA= 106.8kN α = 20.56°]
α
VA
RA
(Q
2.9)
Find the Support reactions for the beam loaded as
shown in the figure.

30kN
15kN/m 23kN 20kN

3m 2m 2m
 (Q
2.9)
Solution

45kN
30KN 23kN 20kN
HA A
MA
FBD
1.5m 1.5m 2m 2m
VA

∑ Fx = 0 HA = 0
∑ Fy = 0 VA –45 –30 –23 –20 = 0
∑ MA = 0 MA –45x1.5 –30x3 –23x5 –20x7=0

[ Ans: V A = 118kN MA =412.5kNm]

(Q
2.10)
Find reactions at A,B,C and D

20KN/m
10KN/m

A D
C B

2m 3m 1m 2m
 (Q
2.10)
Solution
10kN/m

10kN/m 10kN/m

Rc
D

A
C B

2m 3m 1m 2m
 (Q
2.10) 40kN
Solution FBD of top beam
20kN

C D

2.0m 1.33m 2m
Rc .67m VD

A B
FBD of bottom beam
C VB
VA
2m 3m
 (Q
2.10)
Solution
40kN 20kN

2m 3.33m

0.67
RC
VD
For top Beam :
∑ Fy = 0; Rc – 40 – 20+V D = 0
∑ M D = 0; - Rc × 6 + 40 × 4 + 20 × 3.33 = 0
Solving the above eqns
RC=37.77kN; VD=22.23kN
(Q
2.10)
For bottom beam :
∑ Fy = 0 V A –37.77–V B=0
∑ MB = 0 -V A× 5 +37.77 ×3=0
Solving the above eqns
VA=22.66kN; VB=15.10kN

RC=37.77kN

VA 2m 3m
VB
 (Q
2.11)X

A ladder of length 5m has a weight of 200N. The foot of the

ladder rests on the floor and the top of it leans against the
vertical wall. Both the wall and floor are smooth. The ladder
is inclined at 60° with the floor. A weight of 300N is
suspended at the top of the ladder. Find the value of the
horizontal force to be applied at the foot of the ladder to keep
it in equilibrium.
 (Q
2.11) 300N
Solution

HB

m
2.5
200N
FBD OF LADDER
5m
2.

600

HA

VA
 (Q
2.11)
∑Fy = 0 V A – 200 – 300=0 ::VA=500N
∑ MA = 0
300N

m
HB x 5 sin60 – 200 ×2.5 cos 60 – 300 ×5cos60=0

2.5
:: HB=230.94N
200N HB

∑Fx = 0 , H A –H B=0

5m
2.
H A=230.94N(Ans.)

60 0
HA

VA
 (Q
2.12)

Find the reactions at the supports A and C of the bent

B C
20 kN/m
3m

2m
 (Q
2.12)

Solution

B C
Y
20 kN/m

VC
3m

X
FBD

HA
VA
2m
 (Q
2.12)

Solution (contd.)

B C

VC∑ Fx = 0 60 –HA=0
3m

60kN
∑ Fy = 0 V A+V C=0

HA ∑ MA = 0 V Cx2-60 ×1.5=0
VA
2m
FBD
 (Q
2.12)
Solving the above
Ans: V A = - 45kN
VC = 45 kN
C
HA = 60kN
B

RA=75 kN
3m

60kN VC 36.90

FBD after
finding - ve sign for V A indicates,
VA HA reactns reaction is downwards and
2m not upwards as assumed
initially.
 (Q
2.13)(B) of weight 2000N rests as shown in the fig. on
A roller
beam CD of weight 500N.Determine the reactions at C and D.
Neglect the weight of beam AB.

A B
1m

4m
D 30°
 (Q
2.13)
Solution:
2000N

FBD of RAB R BC
D

Roller
300
C Hc
D
R BC
Vc
500N
1m
FBD of beam CD
5m
1.

30°
D 5 m
2.
VD
 (Q
2.13)
Solution:
2000N

RAB D
BC
FBD of R
Roller
300
FBD of Roller :
∑ Fy = 0 RBCD cos 30 0 –2000=0
∑ Fx = 0 RAB – R BCD sin 300 =0
Solving above eqns : RBCD=2309.4N;
R AB=1154.7N
 (Q
2.13) beam :
For bottom
∑ Fy = 0 VD –500+Vc –2309.4cos30=0
∑ MC = 0
-V D × 5cos30 + 500 × 2.5 × cos30-2309.4 × 1=0
Solving the above eqns: V D=783.33N; VC=1716.67N
∑ Fx = 0 . 4 N
3 09 30 0
2309.4 sin 30 –H C =0 Hc=1154.7 N 2 Hc
Vc
500N
1m
FBD of

5m
30°

1.
beam CD D

5m
2.
VD
 (Q
2.14)X
Compute the reactions for the bent beam shown in the
figure at A and F.

300Nm 50 N/m

B C D

A 45° F

3m 4m 4m 3m
 (Q
2.14)
Solution
∑ MF = 0 – VA × 14 +200 × 5 – 300=0 200 N
V A=50N 300Nm 2m

∑F X=0 HF=0 B C D
∑F Y=0 VA +VF = 200;
45°
V F = 200 – 50 =150N HF
A F

V A 3m 4m 4m 3m V F
FBD
 (Q 2.15) X

Determine the support reactions for the shown truss

A
3KN

G 3KN
4m

F 3KN

B C D E
4m 4m 4m
 (Q
2.15)
Solution

HA 3KN FBD
A

VA G 3KN
4m

F 3KN

B
C D E
HB 4m 4m
4m
 (Q
2.15)
∑ MA = 0 HB × 4 – 3 × 4 – 3 × 8 – 3 × 12=0
H B=18kN
A 3KN
∑FX=0 : –H A+HB=0 HA 3KN
3KN
HA=18kN
VA
∑FY=0 V A –3 –3 –3=0; 4m
V A=9kN
HB
4m 4m 4m
18kN

26.570
9kN
RA=20.12kN
 FRICTION
(Q
2.16)
If coefficient of friction is 0.20 between the contact surfaces
a) Find the force P just to cause motion to impend up the
plane
b) Find the force P just to prevent motion down the plane
c) Determine the magnitude and direction of the friction
if P = 80N.

200N

P
30°
 FRICTION
(Q t i o n
mo
2.16) p .
I m
a) Y +ve
X + ve
200N
3 0
0 c os
i n 3
2 00 0N
1 300
s .2
2 00 = 0
μN1
=
F1
P P 30°

N1
Fy = 0
N1 – 200 cos30 = 0 ∴ N 1= 173.2 N
F1 = 0.20N1 = 0.20 173.20 = 34.64N
Fx = 0
P – 200sin30 – F 1 = 0 ∴ P = 134.64 N
 FRICTION
(Q o n
o t i
2.16) p . m
b) I m
Y +ve
X + ve

3 0
0 c os
3 0
s i n 20
0
20

P
0 N 1
. 2
=0 N1
μN1
=
F1

Σ Fx = 0
P – 200 sin30 + 0.20 173.2 = 0 ∴ P = 65.36 N
 FRICTION
(Q
2.16)
C) Block will be under rest for the value of P between 134.64 &
Y +ve
65.36N.. X + ve

3 0
0 c os
3 0
s i n 20
20
0 Given, P = 80N
Assume direction of
P friction

F1 N1

Σ Fx = 0
80 – 200Cos60 + F 1 = 0 ∴ F1 = 20 N
 FRICTION
(Q
2.17)
Compute the magnitude of P that will cause the motion to
impend up the plane. Coefficient of friction, μ = 0.20

200N 3 0
n3
0
C os
i 0
0S 20
20
0 N1
0 .2
=
F 1

P P
30°
φ R

N1
 FRICTION
(Q
2.17)
3 0
n 30 C os
i 0
0S 20
20
0 N1
0 .2
P =
F 1
0
30
φ R

N1
 FRICTION
(Q 200
2.17)

OR 600
P μN 1
78.7 0
tan φ = μ = 0.20 R
φ
∴ φ = 11.3°

N1
11.30

P=
175.7
 FRICTION
(Q 2.17) X

Block A weighing 1000N rests over block B of weight 2000N as

shown in fig. Block A is tied to the wall with a horizontal string. If
coefficient of friction between A & B is 0.25 and between B and
the floor is 0.33, what should be the value of P just to move
the block B ?

A
P
B
 FRICTION
(Q
2.17)
RELATIVE FBD of Block A
MOTION FBD of Block B
Y +ve Imp. motion
1000N
F1 N1=1000
T
A 2000
X +ve B P

F1 N1 F2
N2
Block A: ∑F y = 0 ∴ N1 - 1000 = 0
N1 = 1000 N
F 1 = μ1 N 1
= 0.25 1000
= 250 N
∑Fx = 0
F 1 – T = 0 ∴ T= 250 N
 FRICTION
(Q
2.17)
FBD of Block B
Imp. motion
Y +ve
F1 N1 =1000

2000
B P
X +ve

F2
N2
Block A: ∑F y = 0 N2 - N 1 - 2000 = 0
N 2 - 1000 -2000 = 0
N 2 = 3000 N
∑F x = 0 P - F1 -F2 = 0
P- 250 - 0.33 N2 = 0
P - 250 -0.33 3000 = 0
∴ P = 1250 N
 FRICTION
(Q
2.18)
The bodies shown in the following figure are separated by
an uniform strut weighing 100N which is attached to the
bodies with frictionless pins. Coefficient of friction under
each body is 0.30. Determine the force P that will just start
the system rightward. Weight of block A= 400 N, B= 200N

P
A 30
45
°
°
 FRICTION
(Q
2.18)

tan φ = 0.30
∴ φ = 16.7°

FBD of the Strut

B 100 N
T

P
A 30 50 N
45
°
° T
100/2 = 50 N
 FRICTION
(Q
FBD of B
2.18)

200+50
250
R
61.7°
250
58.3°
F2 30° 60°
30
61.7° R T
60°
T 16.70 T 45+16.70
45° R
N2

250/Sin58.3° = T/Sin61.70°
∴ T = 258.72N
 FRICTION
(Q
2.18)
FBD of A

400+50 Y +ve

P T = 258.72
30°
X +ve

F1 = 0.30N 1
N1
∑Fy = 0 N1 - 450 - 258.72Sin30 = 0
N1 = 579.36N
∑Fx = 0 P - F1- 258.72Cos30 = 0
P-0.30 579.36-258.72cos30=0
P- 173.81- 224.06=0
∴ P = 397.87 N
 FRICTION
(Q 2.19) X

What horizontal force P is required on the wedges B and C

just to raise the weight 1000N resting on A. Angle of limiting
friction between all contact surfaces is 10 o.

A
P 15° 15° P
B C
 FRICTION
(Q
2.19)
FBD of A
1000N 1000N
R2
25
°
1000N 130
°
F1 F2 25
° R1
R1 R 10+15
10° 2 25
10° 15° R2
N2 R 1 =25° °
N1 15°

1000/Sin130 = R 1/ Sin25 = R2/ Sin25

∴ R1 = R 2 = 551.69N
 FRICTION
(Q FBD of B
2.19) N1
15°
10° R1 =
551.69 R 1=551.69
P F1

9
25°

.6
35 R3

51
P 65° °

=5
1
R
65 80
80° °
F3 °
P
R3 10
10° ° R3
N3

P/Sin35 = 551.69/ Sin80

∴ P = 321.32N
Note: FBD of Block (C) can also be considered. No
need to consider the FBD of both the blocks (B) &
 FRICTION
(Q
2.20)
Determine the force P required just to start the wedge A
shown in the figure. Angle of limiting friction between all
contact surfaces is 15°.
P
θ = 15°
2000N

A
θ
500N
B
 FRICTION
(Q
2.20)
FBD of B φ = 15° Y +ve

2000N tan φ = μ
F2 = 0.27N 2 ∴ μ = 0.27
500 N ∑Fx = 0 X +ve

N2 N2 - 500- 0.27N1 = 0
N2 = 500 + 0.27N1 ---------(1)
F1 = 0.27N 1
∑Fy = 0
N1 N1- 2000 - 0.27N2 = 0
0.27N2 = N1 -2000
From (1) & (2) N2= 3.70N1 -7407.41 ------(2)
500 + 0.27N 1 = 3.70N1 – 7407.41
3.43N1 = 7907.41
∴ N 1 = 2305.37 N
∴N2=1122.45N
 FRICTION
(Q
2.20)
FBD of Wedge A

P
R2= √ 1122.45 2 +
303.062
P= 1162.64 R2=1162.64
N2=1122.45
φ=15° 75 45
15° °
R2=1162.64 °
N3 15° P
F3 F2=0.27N2 30° 15° 60 R3
R3 °
=303.06
60 75°
P/Sin45 R3 R2=1162.64
°
= 1162.64/ Sin60
∴ P = 949.29N
 FRICTION
(Q
2.21)Xthe minimum value of P to prevent the blocks from
Determine
slipping. Neglect the weights of the link rods. Co-efficient of
friction for all contact surfaces is 0.25.Find the frictional force
under the block B and comment on the result.

WA= W B=2000N
A
Pin Joint
Pin Joints
30° P
C
60°
B
 FRICTION
(Q
2.21)
FBD of A
2000 ∑Fx = 0
N1 - T1 Cos30= 0
N1 N1 = T 1 Cos30 = 0.866T 1-------(1)
30°
T1 ∑Fy = 0
- 2000 + F1 + T 1Sin30 = 0
F1=0.25 N 1 -2000 +0.25N1 + 0.5T 1= 0------(2)
Y +ve
From (1) & (2)
-2000 + 0.25(0.866T 1 )+ 0.5T 1 = 0
∴ T1 = 2791.32 N
X +ve
 FRICTION
(Q
2.21)
Joint (C)

T1 = 2791.32
T2 T1
30° P 90°
60 30°
60
° P
° P/Sin90 = 2791.32/Sin60
T2 = T 2/Sin30
∴ P=3223.14 N
T2 = 1611.57N
 FRICTION
(Q
2.21)
FBD of B ∑Fy = 0
2000 T2=1611.57 N 2 - 2000 – 1611.57Sin60 = 0
∴ N2 =3395.60 Y +ve
60°
∑Fx = 0
F2 – 1611.57Cos60 = 0
X +vet
F2 F2 = 805.79 N (Friction Developed
under block B)
N2

Limiting friction = μN 2 = 0.25 x 3395.60 = 848.92N

Limiting friction is greater than Friction developed. Hence the

block B is at rest.
 FRICTION
(Q
2.22) ladder of length 7m rests against a vertical wall with
An uniform
which it makes an angle of 45 o. Coefficient of friction between
the ladder and the wall is 1/3 and between ladder and the floor
is 1/2. If a person whose weight is half that of the ladder
ascends it, how high will he be when the ladder just slips?
Y +ve

Σ Fx=0 B
NB

FA-NB=0 ∴0.5NA-NB=0 X +ve a

7m FB
NB=0.5NA--------(1)
ΣFy=0 0.5W
NA-W-0.5W+FB=0 3.5m W 7sin45
A
45
NA+0.33NB=1.5W------(2) FA 7cos45
NA
 FRICTION
(Q
2.22)
From (1) & (2)
NA+0.33(0.5NA)=1.5W
∴NA=1.29W
NB=0.64W

+ ve
ΣMB=0 moment
(FA× 7sin45)-(NA × 7cos45)+(W × 3.5cos45)+(0.5W × acos45)=0
a = 2m from the top
 FRICTION
(Q
2.23)
An uniform ladder 3m in length and weighing 180N is placed
against a wall with its end A at the floor and the other end B
on the wall, ladder AB making 60° with the floor. Coefficient
of friction between the wall and ladder is 0.25 and between
floor and ladder is 0.35. In addition to the self weight, the
ladder has to support a person weighing 900N at its top B.
To prevent slipping, a force P is applied horizontally at A at
the level of the floor. Find the minimum force P required for
this condition. Find also the minimum angle α at which the
above ladder with the person at the top should be placed to
prevent slipping without the horizontal force P.
 FRICTION
Y +ve
(Q
2.23)
FBD of Ladder X +ve

900N
NB
B

FB
3m

3sinα
180 N
m
1.5

P A
α

FA
3cosα
NA
 FRICTION
(Q
2.23)α = 60°
a) When
Y +ve
ΣFx = 0, F A+P-NB=0
0.35NA+P-NB=0
N B=P+0.35NA---------(1) X +ve

ΣFy=0, NA-180-900+FB=0 900N

NA+0.25NB=1080----(2)
B NB

FB

3m
m
1.5
180 N 3sinα
P A α
FA 3cosα
NA
 FRICTION
(Q
2.23)
Y +ve
ΣMB=0
= 0.35NA 3sin60 + P 3sin60
X +ve
+ 180 x 1.5cos60
-NA 3cos60 900N
= 0 --------(3) B NB

From(1),(2)&(3) FB

3m
N B=499.16N 3sinα
N A=955.21N

m
1.5
∴P=164.80N 180 N
P A α
FA 3cosα
NA
 FRICTION
(Q
2.23)
(b) Force P is removed, α=? Y +ve
ΣFx=0
FA-NB=0 0.35N A-NB=0 0.35NA=NB---(1) X +ve
ΣFy=0
NA-180-900+FB=0 NA+0.25NB=1080-----(2)
ΣMB=0
0.35NA 3sinα+180 1.5cosα-NA 3cosα=0----(3)
From(1), (2) &(3)
α=68.95°
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q1. A 10kN roller rests on a smooth horizontal floor and is

held by the bar AC as shown in Fig(1). Determine the
magnitude and nature of the force in the bar AC and reaction
from the floor under the action of the forces applied on the
roller. [Ans:FAC=0.058 kN(T),R=14.98 kN]

7kN

C 450
5kN
A 300
Fig(1)
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q1. A 10kN roller rests on a smooth horizontal floor and is

held by the bar AC as shown in Fig(1). Determine the
magnitude and nature of the force in the bar AC and reaction
from the floor under the action of the forces applied on the
roller. [Ans:FAC=0.058 kN(T),R=14.98 kN]

7kN

C 450
5kN
A 300
Fig(1)
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q2. A 10 kN weight is suspended from a rope as shown in

figure. Determine the magnitude and direction of the least force
P required to pull the rope, so that, the weight is shifted
horizontally by 0.5m. Also, determine, tension in the rope in its
new position. [Ans: P= 2.43 kN, θ = 14.48 0 ; T= 9.7kN.]

2m
P
θ

10kN
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q3. Determine the value of P and the nature of the forces in

the bars for equilibrium of the system shown in figure.
[Ans: P = 3.04 kN, Forces in bars are Compressive.]

60
45 45
75
2kN P
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q4. A cable fixed as shown in Fig. supports three loads.

Determine the value of the load W and the inclination of the
segment BC. [Ans: W=25kN, θ = 54.78 0]

A
D
30
B 60
θ
C
20 22.5
Loads are in kN
W
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q5. Find the reactions at A,B,C and D for the beam loaded
as shown in the figure. (Ans.RA=RB =34kN;RC=28.84kN;
MC=-140kNm ; θ C=-33.69 ˚ )

12kN/m 20 kN 12kN/m

4kN/m 30kN
4kN/m

3
4
A B
C
40kNm

1m 2m 1m 1m 2m 1m 1m 2m
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q6. A uniform bar AB of weight 50N shown in the

figure supports a load of 200N at its end. Determine
the tension developed in the string and the force
supported by the pin at B. (Ans. T=529.12N;RB=807.15N,
θ B=64.6˚)

string

2.5m
B
A 60˚

200N
2.5m
2.5m
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q7. Find the position of the hinged support (x),such that the
reactions developed at the supports of the beam are equal..

(Ans.x=2m.)

10kN/m 15kN
18kN/m

x
2.0m 1.0m 0.6 1.4m 3.0m
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q8. A right angled bar ABC hinged at A as shown in fig carries

two loads W and 2W applied at B &C .Neglecting self weight of
the bar find the angle made by AB with vertical (Ans:θ =18.44˚)

A
Lm
θ

W
C
0.5L 2W
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q9. For the block shown in fig., determine the smallest

force P required
a) to start the block up the plane
b) to prevent the block moving down the plane.

Take μ = 0.20
[Ans.:
(a) P min = 59.2N
(b) P min = 23.7N
(b) θ = 11.3 o]
P
100N θ

25°
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q10. A block of weight 2000 N is attached to a cord

passing over a frictionless pulley and supporting a weight
of 800N as shown in fig. If μ between the block and the
plane is 0.35, determine the unknown force P for
impending motion
(a) to the right
(b) to the left
[Ans.: (a) P = 132.8N (b) P =
1252N] 

30° 800N
2000N P
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q11. Determine value of angle θ to cause the motion of

500N block to impend down the plane, if μ for all contact
surfaces is 0.30.

200N
500N
θ=?

[Ans.: θ =
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q12. A horizontal bar 10m long and of negligible weight

rests on rough inclines as shown in fig. If angle of friction
is 15o, how close to B may the 200N force be applied
before the motion impends.

100N 200N
X=?
2m
A B

30° 60°

[Ans.: x =
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q13. Determine the vertical force P required to drive the

wedge B downwards in the arrangements shown in fig.
Angle of friction for all contact surfaces is 12o.Weight of
block A= 1600 N.

B
A 20°

[Ans.: P =
328.42N]
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q14. Determine the force P which is necessary to start

the wedge to raise the block A weighing 1000N. Self
weight of the wedge may be ignored. Take angle of friction,
φ = 15 o for all contact surfaces.

20
P °
wedge
[Ans.: P = 1192N]
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q15. A ladder of weight 200N, 6m long is supported as

shown in fig. If μ between the floor and the ladder is 0.5 &
between the wall and the ladder is 0.25 and it supports a
vertical load of 1000N, determine
a) the least value of α at which the ladder may be placed
without slipping
b) the reactions at A & B
[Ans.: (a) α =
56.3o (b) RA =
1000N
1193 N,
B RB = 550N]

5m

α
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q16. An uniform ladder of weight 250N is placed against a

  vertical wall with its lower end 5m from the wall. μ
smooth
between the ladder and the floor is 0.3. Show that the ladder
remains in equilibrium in this position. What is the frictional
resistance on the ladder at the point of contact between the
ladder and the floor?

Smooth wall
B

12m

[Ans.: FA = 52 N]
A
 EXERCISE PROBLEMS
2. EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCE SYSTEMS

Q17. A ladder of length 5m weighing 500N is placed at 45o

against a vertical wall. μ between the ladder and the wall
is 0.20 & between ladder and ground is 0.50. If a man
weighing 600N ascends the ladder, how high will he be
when the ladder just slips. If a boy now stands on the
bottom rung of the ladder, what must be his least weight
so that the man can go to the top of the ladder.
[Ans.: (a) x = 2.92m (b) W boy = 458N]