Chapter 1 - Statics

Abstract

This chapter deals with structural behavior and structural design. The study begins with a discussion on the concept of load. Finding out what are the loads that act on a structure and how these loads are supported is the prerequisite to all structural design. Tributary area, spandrel girders, and columns that form the skeleton for any structure are discussed. The concept of equilibrium is explained thus–“structure remain at rest.” The implication of this condition, derived from Newton's second law, is that the summation of all forces (or moments) acting on the structure along any given coordinate axis equals zero. No study of structural engineering is complete without understanding the concepts of internal forces and moments. Since beams make up a considerable part of the structure, internal shear forces and bending moments in beams are studied. The reader is made aware of a general strategy of finding internal shear forces by observing a set of rules. Similarly, internal axial forces on trusses, arches, and cables are also detailed. The chapter ends with a focus on indeterminate structures and strength of material.