1. What is Reaction at A?

Reaction at A (R_A) represents the vertical force exerted by a support at point A of a beam when a point load is applied. It's a fundamental calculation in structural engineering for determining support reactions in statically determinate beams.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( R_A \) — Reaction at support A (N)
• \( F \) — Applied point load (N)
• \( b \) — Distance from load to support B (m)
• \( a \) — Distance from load to support A (m)
• \( L \) — Total beam length (m) where \( L = a + b \)

Explanation: This formula calculates the vertical reaction force at support A of a simply supported beam with a single point load.

3. Importance of Reaction Calculation

Details: Accurate reaction calculations are essential for structural design, ensuring beams and supports are properly sized to handle applied loads without failure.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all values in consistent units (N for force, m for distance). Ensure the sum of distances a and b equals the total length L.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What types of beams does this formula apply to?
A: This formula applies to simply supported beams with a single point load.

Q2: How do I calculate reaction at B?
A: Reaction at B can be calculated as \( R_B = F - R_A \) or using a similar formula with distances swapped.

Q3: What if I have multiple point loads?
A: For multiple loads, you would use superposition - calculate reactions for each load separately and sum the results.

Q4: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: This formula assumes the beam is perfectly rigid, supports are ideal, and only vertical loads are applied.

Q5: What about distributed loads?
A: Distributed loads require different formulas. For uniform loads, reactions are typically half the total load at each support.