Question

Calculate the reactions at 4 ends (supports) of this bookshelf. Assume that the weight of each book is approximately 1 lb. The width of shelf is 10inches and its length is 40 inches. (Hint: Model the shelf as a beam with distributed load).

Answer 1

R = 4.75 lb (↑)

Step-by-step explanation:

Number of books = n = 19

Weight of each book = W = 1 lb

Length of the bookshelf = L = 40 inches

We can get the value of the distributed load as follows

q = n*W/L = 19*1 lb/ 40 inches = 0.475 lb/in

then the reactions at 4 ends (supports) of the bookshelf are

R = (q/2)/2 = 4.75 lb

We can see the bookshelf in the pic.