Topic summary · Student revision
Statics Topic Review summary
Self-review on rigid-body statics: forces, moments, and reactions for ladders and frameworks as taught in M2.
Files: Topic-Review-Statics.pdf · Topic-Review-Statics-Answers.pdf · free public downloads · diagrams in the PDFs
Key learning points
- Force and moment equilibrium for a rigid body.
- Ladder problems: reactions at wall/floor; smooth vs rough.
- Take moments about a point to eliminate unknown reactions.
- Limiting friction at the point of slipping.
- Light rods in frameworks: tension/compression along the rod.
Worked example 1 — Moments tip
Why take moments about the rough contact?
Working
Simplifies the equation.
Worked example 2 — Ladder
Smooth wall reaction direction.
Working
No friction at a smooth wall.
Worked example 3 — Force and moment equilibrium for a rigid b
Apply this idea from the Topic Review: Force and moment equilibrium for a rigid body.
Working
Attempt without notes, then check the answers PDF.
Worked example 4 — Ladder problems: reactions at wall/floor;
Apply this idea from the Topic Review: Ladder problems: reactions at wall/floor; smooth vs rough.
Working
Attempt without notes, then check the answers PDF.
Scaffolded Learning Sheet and answers (PDFs)
This page is a short, searchable overview for revision and search engines. Use the Scaffolded Learning Sheet first, then the Answers PDF for a full written solution. The printable PDFs remain the main classroom resource.