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GATE 2018 ME (ME1) – Question 15

Engineering Mechanics · Free-body diagrams and equilibrium · 1 mark · Multiple choice

A uniform bar weighing 100 N is held horizontally by massless inextensible strings S1 and S2 as shown. Their tensions are ______.

Diagram for GATE 2018 ME (ME1) question 15
  1. T₁ = 100 N, T₂ = 0 N
  2. T₁ = 0 N, T₂ = 100 N
  3. T₁ = 75 N, T₂ = 25 N
  4. T₁ = 25 N, T₂ = 75 N

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Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (B) T₁ = 0 N, T₂ = 100 N

Explanation

The bar’s weight acts at its midpoint, exactly under S2. Moment balance about S2 gives $T_1(L/2)=0$, hence T₁ = 0. Vertical equilibrium then gives T₂ = 100 N (B).