Shearing Force Direction and Sign Convention

In summary, the author ignores the 10kN force for x values between 0 and 3 and assumes downwards force as positive. The shearing force at A is 4kN pointing downwards. The moment at x values between 3 and 5 is calculated using the equation 4x - 10(x-3). The author takes the moment at an imaginary cut in the beam and assumes equal and opposite internal forces to maintain equilibrium. This is because any imaginary slice of the beam will result in mirror image shear, torsion, tension, and compression forces between the left and right faces of that section.
  • #1
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Homework Statement


why for 0 <x <3 , why the author ignore the 10kN ? as we can see , the 10kN is located 3m from A ...
2nd question is , the author assume downwards force is positive , am i right ?
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Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


for 0 <x <3 , the shearing force V = 4kN , as we can can see , at A the support force (4kN) is pointing upwards , so the shearing force 4kN should be pointing downwards , am i right ? so , the author assume downwards force is positive??
if so , why in the shearing force diagram (SFD) , the 4kN is at positive x direction , shouldn't it at 4kN bottom of the x-axis ?
 
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  • #2
one more question , why the moment at 3 <x<5 is 4x - 10(x-3) , the author taking moment at which point ?
 
  • #3
Make an imaginary cut in the beam. If the shear force is pointing up to the left of the cut then shear force is positive by convention.

Everything to the right of the cut we ignore (for purposes of calculating shear force) because we know beam is in equilibrium. That means you can automatically assume whatever shear force (or bending moment) exists on the left face of the cut, it is equal & opposite to that which exists on the right face.
 
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  • #4
David Lewis said:
Make an imaginary cut in the beam. If the shear force is pointing up to the left of the cut then shear force is positive by convention.

Everything to the right of the cut we ignore (for purposes of calculating shear force) because we know beam is in equilibrium. That means you can automatically assume whatever shear force (or bending moment) exists on the left face of the cut, it is equal & opposite to that which exists on the right face.
Why??
 
  • #5
Because if internal forces are not equal & opposite, the beam will fail. Any imaginary slice will render mirror image shear, torsion, tension and compression forces between the left and right faces of that section.
 

FAQ: Shearing Force Direction and Sign Convention

What is the definition of shearing force?

Shearing force is a type of force that creates a parallel sliding motion between two surfaces that are in contact with each other.

How is shearing force different from compressive force?

Shearing force acts in a direction that is parallel to the surfaces in contact, whereas compressive force acts perpendicular to the surfaces in contact.

What factors affect the direction of shearing force?

The direction of shearing force is affected by the orientation of the surfaces in contact, the magnitude and direction of the applied force, and the material properties of the surfaces.

What is the significance of understanding the direction of shearing force?

Understanding the direction of shearing force is important in order to design structures that can withstand and distribute shear forces effectively. It is also crucial in analyzing failures and deformations in objects subjected to shear forces.

How is the direction of shearing force determined in a real-world scenario?

The direction of shearing force can be determined by using shear stress analysis techniques such as Mohr's circle or by conducting experiments and measurements on the object in question.

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