Final answer:
To replace a distributed loading with an equivalent resultant force, find the sum of all the individual forces acting on the system and represent each force as an arrow. The resultant force is the vector sum of these individual forces.
Step-by-step explanation:
To replace a distributed loading with an equivalent resultant force, you need to find the sum of all the individual forces acting on the system. Each individual force can be represented by an arrow with its magnitude and direction. The resultant force would be the vector sum of all these individual forces.
For example, if you have a distributed loading where each unit length of the loading exerts a force of 10 N in the upward direction, and the loading extends for a length of 5 meters, the total force exerted by the loading would be 10 N/m x 5 m = 50 N. So, the equivalent resultant force would be 50 N in the upward direction.