DISCUSSIONS

1. Discuss the value of Ra, Rb and (Ra + Rb) obtained.

The value of Ra and Rb was obtained based on the equilibrium of the beam. The value of
Ra and Rb determined whether the beam was in equilibrium or not. Furthermore, the value
of (Ra + Rb) obtained based on the value Ra and Rb. The larger the value of Ra and Rb,
the larger values of (Ra + Rb).

2. Compare experimental and theoretical value. If not same, why?

Most of the values of experimental and theoretical value are not same. This is because some
error happened when the experiment was conducted. Firstly, wind error. When we take the
reading of spring balance, the reading was moved up and down so the reading obtained not
too accurate. Secondly, apparatus error where most of the apparatus that we used in this
experiment are not in good condition and old apparatus, so it may affects the reading
obtained. For example of apparatus error is the elasticity of spring balance was decreased,
so the reading obtained must higher than original reading.

3. Explain how are the steps to study and analyze a beam. What factors that affected the
reaction of a beam?
Firstly, we need to draw a free body diagram of the beam. Show all the external forces,
direction and magnitude of reaction forces and couple moments. If it exists, label the
dimension. After that, apply equation of equilibrium to find the unknown forces. The
factors that affected the reaction beam is the magnitude of loading position of reaction
forces and weight of the beam. In addition, the thickness of the beam also affected the
reaction of the beam.