(Solved): Learning Goal: To analyze trusses using the method of joints. For a truss to be in equilibrium, ea ...

Learning Goal: To analyze trusses using the method of joints. For a truss to be in equilibrium, each of its joints also dimension \( a=2.6 \mathrm{~m} \) is subjected to forces \( P_{1}=17 \mathrm{kN} \) and \( P_{2}=40 \) must be in equilibrium. Trusses consist of pin connections, so equilibrium conditions \( \sum F_{x}=0 \) and \( \sum F_{y}=0 \) must be satisfied at each joint. Because coplanar and concurrent forces act at each joint, moment equations are not needed when evaluating forces at a joint. Analysis should start at a joint having at least one known force and at most two unknown forces. When drawing a free-body diagram of a joint, always assume unknown member forces are in tension. By doing so, the numerical solution of the equilibrium equations will yield positive scalars for members in tension and negative scalars for members in compression.