Veronica B.

Galaura

BSCE-3

1. Differentiate between statically determinate and statically indeterminate structures. Give one real-life
example of each (add pictures) and explain why they belong to that category.

Answer:

A Statically Determinate structure can be fully analysed using equilibrium equations only while the Statically
Indeterminate structure requires both equilibrium equations and compatibility conditions to be fully analysed.

 Example: Statically Determinate Structure

The Union-Pacific Railroad that operates 8,300 locomotives over 32,200 miles routes in 23 U.S. states west of
Chicago and New Orleans is a real life example of a statically determinate structure.

FBD: TRUSS BRIDGE

Using the stability and determinacy:

Formula: B+R>=<2J

Given: B=25 members

R= 3 reactions ( pin & roller )

J= 14 joints

Therefore, substituting the given to the formula we can came up to:

25+3>=<2(14)

28=28

Conclusion: The Truss is Statically determinate.

The Guadalupe Bridge in Metro Manila, Philippines. It is a vital transportation link connecting Makati City and
Mandaluyong City over the Pasig River, serving thousands of commuters and vehicles daily along EDSA is the
real life example of a statutory indeterminate structure.

FBD: TRUSS BRIDGE

Using the stability and determinacy:

Formula: B+R>=<2J

Given: B=28 members

R= 3 reactions ( pin & roller )

J= 15 joints

Therefore, substituting the given to the formula we can came up to:

28+3>=<2(15)
31>30

Conclusion: The Truss is Statically Indeterminate to the 1st degree.

2. A beam is placed on two simple simple supports with one internal hinge. Using the conditions for
determinacy, analyze whether the beam is stable, unstable, or indeterminate. Show your step-by-step
reasoning.

Answer: FBD

Since the problem is about a beam, we use the formula for beams:
R>=<3+C
The beam has 3 reactions because it is supported by a pin and a roller.
There is also 1 internal hinge, so we substitute into the formula:

Given: R=3,C=1
So, we can directly substitute the given.
3>=<3+1
3<4

According to the module, this makes the beam unstable.

Conclusion: If the hinge was not present, the beam would have been a stable, statically determinate beam.

3. For a truss with 8 members, 5 joints and 3 support reactions: Determine if it is stable, unstable, or
Indeterminate.

Answer :
Since the problem is about a truss, we use the formula:
{ B + R = 2J }

Where:
B = number of members
R = number of support reactions
J = number of joints

From the given:

Now substitute the values:

4. Compare and contrast static loads and dynamic loads. Why is it important for an engineer to consider
both during structural design, especially in earthquake-prone areas like the Philippines?

Answer :

Static loads are constant force such as dead and live loads, while dynamic loads are sudden force such as
earthquake, wind, or speeding cars. Both need to be considered by engineers because buildings not only need to
support daily load but also safely stand the tests of disaster, particularly in earthquake-prone areas like the
Philippines.

5. Beams, trusses, and rigid frames are the three basic engineering structures. For each:

: State the types of internal forces it primarily resists.

:Provide a practical example in civil engineering projects in your community.

Answer:

Beams are structures in buildings that support the floors and roofs. They primarily resist shearing and bending.
For example, the beams made of concrete in my school classroom assist in keeping the roof and floor stable so
the building can be safely used.

Trusses are triangular structures, and they are sturdy because they distribute the weight by exerting the pushing
and pulling forces. A perfect example is the steel trusses in an indoor basketball court, which support the roof
while maintaining the space wide and open for individuals to play.

Rigid frames comprise of columns and beams that are joined to one another closely. They can withstand
bending, pushing, and shearing simultaneously. For example, the concrete building of the business complex or
town hall is sturdy enough to withstand earthquakes or gales

6. Out of the 5 stages in the complete design of a structure, which stage do you think requires the
decision-making from the engineer? Justify your answer with reasons.

Answer:

Out of the five stages in the design of a structure, I believe the stage that requires the most decision-making from
the engineer is the development of the general layout. This is because, at this point, the engineer must
carefully decide on the type of structure, the materials to be used, the best location, and even make an initial cost
estimate. These choices will influence the safety, functionality, and economy of the entire project. Unlike the later
stages, which mostly follow standard codes and technical procedures, the general layout demands the engineer’s
creativity, experience, and judgment. A wise decision here can lead to a successful project, while a poor one may
cause problems in every step that follows.

7. Explain the difference between linear and nonlinear structural behavior. Give one example of a site a
structure may behave nonlinearly even if the material is still elastic.
Answer:

Linear behavior is when deformation of the structure varies in proportion to the load. That is, if you double the
load, the deformation also doubles, and when you bring back the load to zero, so does the structure.
Nonlinear behavior is when the response is not proportional. The structure could deform more than it would with
its shape or geometry, even without needing to damage the material.

Example: Long suspension cables can show nonlinear behavior as they deform and extend extensively under big
loads even when steel is still not losing its elasticity.

8. Identify and describe the three main types of supports (hinge, roller, fixed). For each support type
number of reactions it provides and give one situation where that support is commonly used.
Answer:

1. Hinge (or Pinned) Support

A hinge support works like a pivot. It holds a structure firmly in place against both horizontal and vertical forces
but still allows it to rotate. It has 2 reactions (one horizontal and one vertical). A common example is at one end
of a bridge, where it helps the bridge expand or contract when the temperature changes.

2. Roller Support

A roller support sits on a surface and only resists vertical forces, while allowing horizontal movement and
rotation. It has 1 reaction (a vertical force). This type of support is often paired with a hinge to make a simply
supported beam, like the setup seen in bridges or building beams, so they can expand without causing cracks.

3. Fixed (or Rigid) Support

A fixed support is the strongest type because it prevents all movement and rotation. It has 3 reactions (horizontal
force, vertical force, and a moment). You can see this in beams built into walls or columns connected to a
foundation, where the connection must stay solid and stable.