M th

VIRTUAL WORK 3
CHAPTER

Work done by a force

If a constant force
F acts on a particle and particle is displaced from a point A to
 = d
, then the work done by the force
F is given by

F
B. Let AB

W =
F.
d = Fd cosθ

θ
θ
Where θ is angle between
F and d
.

d
A B

Special cases
Now we discuss some special cases of the above article.
(i) When θ = 00
Work done = Fdcos00 = Fd
So work done will maximum when θ = 00
(ii) When θ = 900
Work done = Fdcos900 = 0
So work done will be zero when applied force is perpendicular to the displacement.
(iii) When θ = 1800
Work done = Fdcos1800 =  Fd
Thus,
When 00 ≤ θ ≤ 900 Then work done will positive because cosθ ≥ 0 when 00 ≤ θ ≤ 900
When 900 ≤ θ ≤ 1800 Then work done will negative because cosθ ≤ 0 when 900 ≤ θ ≤ 1800

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 2

Virtual Displacement & Virtual Work

If a set of particles or a body is in equilibrium under the action of forces then there is no
motion and consequently there is no actual displacement. Suppose that the set of particles or
the body receives an imaginary displacement, the forces acting thereon being regarded as
constant during the displacement. Then such a displacement is called virtual displacement
and work done by the forces during such a displacement is called virtual work.

It may be noted that a virtual displacement is only a hypothetical displacement involving no

passage of time and is quite different from actual displacement of a moving body taking place
in the course of time.

APPLIED FORCES & FORCES OF CONSTRANIT

Particles or rigid bodies are generally subjected to two types of forces:
(i) Internal Forces (ii) External Forces

Internal forces
Internal forces are those forces which the different part of a system exerts on
each other and such forces obey Newton’s 3rd law of motion.

External forces
External forces are those forces which are not due to any part of a system but
which are due to some external agency. External forces are further classified as:
(i) Reactive Forces or Forces of Constraint (ii) Active or Applied Forces

Reactive Forces or Forces of Constraint

When a set of particle or a body is made to move along or rest on a curve or
surface, the forces are exerted by such curve or surface are called forces of constraint or
reactive forces.

Active or Applied Forces
External forces which are not due to any constraint is called active forces or
applied forces. If a particle rests on or moves along an inclined plane, the reaction of the
plane is a reactive force but the weight of the particle is an active force.

Ideal or Workless Constraints
If the forces of constraint do no virtual work, the constraint are said to be ideal
or workless.

Now we state and prove the some important theorems, known as principles of Virtual Work,
for a single particle, a set of particles, a rigid body and set of rigid bodies.

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 3

Principle of Virtual Work for a Single Particle

STATEMENT:
A particle subject to workless constraints, is in equilibrium if and only if zero
virtual work is done by the applied forces in any arbitrary infinitesimal displacement
consistent with the constraints.
proof:
Let the total applied force on the particle be
Fa and the total force of constraint is
Fc .
Suppose particle is in equilibrium. Then by definition of equilibrium

Fa +
Fc = 0 ______________ (i)

Now we have to show that virtual work done by the applied forces is zero.
Let δr be an infinitesimal displacement of the particle consistent with constraints. Then by
taking dot product of (i) with δr , we get

a +
Fc ).δr = δr.0
(F

⇒
Fa .δr +
Fc .δr = 0 ______________ (ii)

Since the constraint is workless therefore

Fc .δr = 0
So (ii) becomes

Fa .δr = 0
Which shows that the virtual work done by the applied forces is zero.
Conversely, suppose that the virtual work done by the applied forces is zero.
i.e.
Fa .δr = 0 ______________ (iii)
Now we have to prove that the particle is in equilibrium. i.e.
i.e.
Fa +
Fc = 0
Since the constraint is workless therefore

Fc .δr = 0 ______________ (iv)
Adding (iii) and (iv), we get

Fa .δr +
Fc .δr = 0

⇒
a +
Fc ).δr = 0

(F
⇒
Fa +
Fc = 0 ∵ δr ≠ 0
Which shows that the particle is in equilibrium. This completes the proof.

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 4

Principle of Virtual Work for a Set of Particles

STATEMENT:
A set of particles subject to workless constraints, is in equilibrium if and only if
zero virtual work is done by the applied forces in any arbitrary infinitesimal displacement
consistent with the constraints.
proof:
Let the total applied force on the set of particles be
Fia and the total force of constraint is
Fic .
Suppose the set of particles is in equilibrium. Then by definition of equilibrium

ia +
Fic  = 0

F
n

______________ (i)
i =1

Now we have to show that virtual work done by the applied forces is zero.
Let δri be an infinitesimal displacement of the particle consistent with constraints. Then by
taking dot product of (i) with δri , we get

ia +
Fic . δri = δri .0

F
n

i =1

ia . δri +
Fic . δri  = 0

F
n

⇒
i =1

Fia . δri +
Fic . δri = 0

n n

⇒ ______________ (ii)
i =1 i =1
Since the constraint is workless therefore

Fic . δri = 0
n

i =1
So (ii) becomes

Fia . δri = 0
n

i =1
Which shows that the virtual work done by the applied forces is zero.
Conversely, suppose that the virtual work done by the applied forces is zero.

Fia . δri = 0
n

i.e. ______________ (iii)

i =1
Now we have to prove that the particle is in equilibrium. i.e.

ia +
Fic  = 0

F
n

i.e.
i =1

Since the constraint is workless therefore

Fic . δri = 0
n

______________ (iv)
i =1

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 5

Adding (iii) and (iv), we get

Fia . δri +
Fic . δri = 0

n n

i =1 i =1

ia . δri +
Fic . δri  = 0

F
n

⇒
i =1

ia +
Fic . δri = 0

F
n

⇒
i =1

ia +
Fic  = 0

F ∵ δri ≠ 0
n

⇒
i =1

Which shows that the particle is in equilibrium. This completes the proof.

Principle of Virtual Work for a Single Rigid Body

STATEMENT:
A rigid body subject to workless constraints, is in equilibrium if and only if zero
virtual work is done by the applied forces and applied torques in any arbitrary infinitesimal
displacement consistent with the constraints.
proof:
Note that a system of forces acting on a rigid body can be reduced to a single force
R

 at any


.
arbitrary point together with a couple G

Let

 R
R

a  R


c


a is sum of applied forces and R
Where R

c is sum of forces of constraints.

Let


G


Ga 


Gc
Where


Ga is sum of applied torques and


Gc is sum of torques of constraints.
Suppose the rigid body is in equilibrium. Then by definition of equilibrium

R

 = 0 __________(i)
and


G=0 __________(ii)
Now we have to show that the virtual work done by applied force and applied torques is zero.

 be an infinitesimal virtual displacement and rotation of the rigid body. Then by
Let δr and δθ

 , we get
taking dot product of (i) with δr and (ii) with δθ


.δr = δr.0 ⇒ R
R

.δr = 0 __________(iii)

and


G.δθ
 = δθ

.0 ⇒


G.δθ
 = 0 __________(iv)

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 6

Adding (iii) and (iv), we get

.δr + G
R
 = 0


.δθ

⇒

a  R
(R

a  G


c ).δr + (G
 = 0


c ).δθ

⇒
a δr 
R

R
 
G

a . δθ

c .δr +
G
 = 0

c .δθ __________(v)
Since the constraints are workless therefore


c .δr = 0 and G
R
 = 0


c .δθ
So (v) becomes


a δr + G
R
 = 0


a . δθ
Which shows that the virtual work done by the applied forces and applied torques is zero.
Conversely, suppose that the virtual work done by the applied forces and applied torques is
zero. i.e.

a δr = 0 and G
R
 = 0


a . δθ

⇒ R
 = 0


a . δθ


a δr + G ________(vi)
Now we have to show that the rigid body is in equilibrium.
i.e. R

 = 0


 = 0 and G
Since the constraints are workless therefore

c .δr = 0 and



R
 = 0
Gc .δθ
⇒ R
 = 0


c .δθ


c .δr + G __________(vii)
Adding (vi) and (vii), we get

a δr +



R
 +
R
Ga . δθ
c .δr +


 = 0
Gc .δθ
⇒

a +
R
(R

a +
G

c ).δr + (G
 = 0

c ).δθ

⇒
.δr +
G

R
 = 0

.δθ

 ≠ 0
Since δr ≠ 0 and δθ


 = 0


 = 0 and G
Therefore R
Which shows that the body is in equilibrium.
This completes the proof.

Principle of Virtual Work for Set of Rigid Bodies

STATEMENT:
A set of rigid bodies subject to workless constraints, is in equilibrium if and only
if zero virtual work is done by the applied forces and applied torques in any arbitrary
infinitesimal displacement consistent with the constraints.
proof:

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 7

i
Note that a given system of forces acting on ith rigid body can be reduced to a single force
R
at any arbitrary point in the plane together with a couple


Gi .

Let
i
R

R
ia 
R

ic


ia is sum of applied forces and R
Where R

ic is sum of forces of constraints.

Let

i G
G

ia  G


ic


ia is sum of applied torques and G
Where G

ic is sum of torques of constraints.
Suppose the rigid body is in equilibrium. Then by definition of equilibrium

R

i = 0
n

____________(i)
i =1


n

and Gi = 0 ___________(ii)
i =1

Now we have to show that the virtual work done by applied force and applied torques is zero.

i be an infinitesimal virtual displacement and rotation of the rigid body. Then
Let δri and δθ

i , we get
by taking dot product of (i) with δri and (ii) with δθ

R

i . δr = 0
n

____________(iii)
i =1

G
 = 0

i . δθ
n

and ____________(iv)
i =1
Adding (iii) and (iv), we get

i δr 
G

R
 = 0

i δθ
n n

i =1 i =1

ia  R

R

ia  G


ic . δr 
G
 = 0


ic . δθ
n n

⇒
i =1 i =1

ia . δr  R
R

ic . δr  G
  G


ia . δθ
 = 0


ic . δθ
n n n n

⇒ ____________(v)
i =1 i =1 i =1 i =1
Since the constraints are workless therefore

ic . δr 0 and



R
 = 0
Gic . δθ
n n

i =1 i =1

So (v) becomes

ia . δr  G
R
 = 0


ia . δθ
n n

i =1 i =1

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 8

Which shows that the virtual work done by the applied forces and applied torques is zero.
Conversely, suppose that the virtual work done by the applied forces and applied torques is
zero. i.e.

ia . δr 0 and G

R
 = 0


ia . δθ
n n

i =1 i =1

ia . δr 



R
 = 0
Gia . δθ
n n

⇒ ____________(vi)
i =1 i =1

Now we have to show that the rigid body is in equilibrium. i.e.

i = 0


i = 0 and G
R
n n

i =1 i =1

Since the constraints are workless therefore

ic . δr 0 and



R
 = 0
Gic . δθ
n n

i =1 i =1

ic . δr  G
R
 = 0


ic . δθ
n n

⇒ ____________(vii)
i =1 i =1

Adding (vii) and (vii), we get

ic . δr 
G

ia . δr 
R

R
 
G

ia . δθ
 = 0

ic . δθ
n n n n

i =1 i =1 i =1 i =1

ia  R

R

ia  G


ic . δr 
G
 = 0


ic . δθ
n n

⇒
i =1 i =1

i δr 
G

R
 = 0

i δθ
n n

⇒
i =1 i =1

R
 = 0

i δr  δθ
n n

⇒
i =1 i =1

R
 = 0

i δr 0 and δθ
n n

 ≠ 0
Since δr ≠ 0 and δθ
i =1 i =1

i 0 and



R
n n

⇒ Gi = 0
i =1 i =1

Which shows that the body is in equilibrium. This completes the proof.

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 9

Question 1
A light thin rod 12ft long can turn in a vertical plane about one of its point which is attached
to a pivot. If weight of 3lb and 4lb are suspended from its ends, it rests in a horizontal
position. Find the position of the pivot and its reaction on the rod.

Solution
Let AB be a rod of length 12ft and O be pivot and R be the normal reaction of pivot on rod.
Let δy be the infinitesimal displacement vertically upward direction. Then
R

x 12 – x
A B
O

4lb 3lb
Equation of virtual work
Rδy – 3δy – 4δy = 0
⇒ (R – 7)δy = 0
Since δy is arbitrary therefore δy ≠ 0.
So R–7=0 ⇒ R=7
Let AO = x Then BO = 12 – x
The moments of weights about the pivot are 4x and – 3(12 – x). Let δθ be the small angular
displacement of the rod about the pivot. Then
Equation of virtual work
4xδθ – 3(12 – x)δθ = 0
⇒ (4x – 36 + 3x)δθ = 0
⇒ (7x – 36)δθ = 0
Since δθ is arbitrary therefore δθ ≠ 0.
So 7x – 36 = 0

5 ft ⇒ AO = 5 ft
36 1 1
⇒ x=
7 7 7

BO = 12  6 ft
36 48 6
and
7 7 7

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 10

Question 2
Four equal heavy uniform rods are freely jointed to form a rhombus ABCD, which is freely
suspended from A and is kept in shape of a square by an inextensible string connecting A and
C. Show that the tension in the string is 2W where W is the weight of each rod.

Solution
A Fixed Level

G
D B

4W T

Let W be the weight of each rod. Then the weight of the four rod is 4W, which acts at a point
G, where G is the point of the intersection diagonals AC and BD. Let T be tension in the
string. Let AC = 2y ⇒ AG = y
Then Equation of virtual work
4W δ(AG) – Tδ(AC) = 0
⇒ 4W δ(y)  2Tδ(y) = 0
⇒ (4W  2T)δ(y) = 0
⇒ 4W  2T = 0 ∵ δ(y) ≠ 0
⇒ 4W = 2T
⇒ T = 2W

Question 3
Four equal uniform rods are smoothly jointed to form a rhombus ABCD, which is placed in a
vertical plane with AC vertical and A resting on a horizontal plane. The rhombus is kept in
shape, with the measure of angle BAC equal to θ, by a light string joining B and D. Find the
tension in the string.

Solution

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 11

T G T
D B

4W L
θ
Fixed Horizontal Plane
A

Let W be the weight of each rod. Then the weight of the four rod is 4W, which acts at a point
G. Where G is the point of the intersection diagonals AC and BD.
Let L be length of each rod. Let T be tension in the string. Given ∠ BAC = θ
Equation of virtual work
 4W δ(AG) – Tδ(BD) = 0
⇒ 4W δ(AG) + Tδ(BD) = 0 ___________(i)
From Fig.
AG = Lcosθ and BG = Lsinθ
Also BD = 2(BG) = 2Lsinθ
Using values in (i), we get
4W δ(Lcosθ) + Tδ(2Lsinθ) = 0
⇒  4WLsinθ δθ + 2TLcosθ δθ = 0
⇒ (2LTcosθ  4WLsinθ) δθ = 0
Since δθ is an arbitrary therefore δθ ≠ 0
So 2LTcosθ  4WLsinθ = 0
⇒ 2LTcosθ = 4WLsinθ
⇒ Tcosθ = 2Wsinθ
⇒ T = 2Wtanθ

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 12

Question 4
A rhombus ABCD of smoothly jointed rods, rests on a smooth table with the rod BC fixed
in position. The middle points of AD and DC are connected by a string which is kept taut by
a couple applied to the rod AB. Prove that the tension of the string is

2G
1 
ABcos  AB C
2

Solution
C

θ
D H 2θ B
θ
T
G
F
Fixed Horizontal Plane
A

Consider a rhombus ABCD of smoothly jointed rods, rests on a smooth table with the rod BC
fixed in position as shown in figure. Let T be the tension in the string EF where E and F are
the middle points of the rods DC and AD respectively. Let L be the length of each rod and G
be a couple applied on the rod AB.
Equation of virtual work
Gδ(2θ) – Tδ(EF) = 0 ____________(i)
From figure.
EF = 2(HF)

= 2  sinθ
L
2
= Lsinθ
Using value of EF in (i), we get
Gδ(2θ) – Tδ(Lsinθ) = 0
⇒ 2Gδθ – TLcosθ δθ = 0
⇒ (2G – TLcosθ) δθ = 0

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 13

⇒ 2G – TLcosθ = 0 ∵ δθ ≠ 0
2G
⇒ T=
Lcosθ
C
1
Since L = AB and θ = AB
2
2G
1 
ABcos  AB
⇒ T=
C
2

Question 5
Four uniform rods are freely jointed at their extremities and form a parallel-gram ABCD,
which is suspended from the joint A and is kept in shape by an inextensible string AC. Prove
that the tension in the string is equal to half the whole weight.

Solution
A Fixed Level

B T

W T D

Let W be the weight of the four rods acting at point G. Where G is the point of intersection of
the diagonals AC and BD. Suppose the T be the tension in the string AC.
Let AC = 2y Then AG = y
Equation of virtual Work
Wδ(AG) – Tδ(AC) = 0
⇒ Wδ(y) – Tδ(2y) = 0
⇒ (W – 2T)δy = 0
⇒ W – 2T = 0 ∵ δy ≠ 0
W
⇒ T=
2

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 14

Question 6
A string of length a forms the shorter diagonal of a rhombus formed by four uniform rods,
each of length b and weight W, which are hanged together. If one of the rod is supported in
a horizontal position. Prove that the tension in the string is

2W
2b2  a2 
b4b2  a2

Solution

A M B
Fixed Horizontal Level

900
G

T
θ
θ
D N C
4W

Since W is the weight of each rod therefore the weight of four rods is 4W acting at point G.
Where G is the point of intersection of the diagonals AC and BD. Let T be the tension in the
string.
Given AB = BC = CD = DA = b and AC = a
Let ∠ ADC = 2θ Then ∠ ADG = θ and ∠ BDC = θ
Equation of virtual work
4Wδ(MG) – Tδ(AC) = 0 ___________(i)
From fig.
1 1 1
MG = AN = ADsin2θ = bsin2θ
2 2 2
Also
AC = 2AG = 2ADsinθ = 2bsinθ
But AC = a ⇒ a = 2bsinθ ⇒ sinθ = a2b
Using values of MG and AC in (i), we get
4Wδ  bsin2θ  Tδ2bsinθ 0
1
2

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 15

⇒ 4Wbcos2θδθ – 2Tbcosθδθ = 0
⇒ (4Wbcos2θ – 2Tbcosθ)δθ = 0
⇒ 4Wbcos2θ – 2Tbcosθ = 0 ∵ δθ ≠ 0
⇒ 4Wbcos2θ = 2Tbcosθ
2Wcos2θ
⇒ T=
cosθ
2Wcos2 θ  sin2 θ 2W1  sin2 θ  sin2 θ
√1  sin2 θ
= =
cosθ
a 
2W1  2sin θ 2 2W 1  2 2b 

√1  sin2 θ a 
= =
1  2b

4b2  a2
2W 1  2 2 
a2 2W " #
4b 2b2
= =
!1  !4b 2 a
2
a2 2

4b2 4b

2W
2b2  a2 

b4b2  a2

Question 7
Six equal rods AB, BC, CD, DE, EF and FA are each of weight W and are freely jointed at
their extremities so as to form a hexagon. The rod AB is fixed in a horizontal position and the
middle points of AB and DE are jointed by a string. Prove that its tension is 3W.

Solution
A M B Fixed Horizontal Level
θ

G
F C

6W

E N D

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 16

Let M and N be the midpoints of the sides AB and DE of a hexagon ABCDEF. Let W be the
weight of the each rod. Then weight of the six rods is 6W which acts at point G. Where G is
the centre of the gravity of hexagon. Let T be the tension in the string MN.
Let MN = 2y Then MG = y
Equation of virtual work
6Wδ(MG) – Tδ(MN) = 0
⇒ 6Wδ(y) – Tδ(2y) = 0
⇒ (6W – 2T)δy = 0
⇒ 6W – 2T = 0 ∵ δy ≠ 0
⇒ T = 3W

Question 8
Six equal uniform rods AB, BC, CD, DE, EF and FA are each of weight W are freely jointed
to form a regular hexagon. The rod AB is fixed in a horizontal position and the shape of the
hexagon is maintained by a light rod joining C and F. Show that the thrust in this rod is √3W.

Solution
A P B Fixed Horizontal Level
θ

G θ
F C
T M N T

E D

6W

Since W be weight of each rod therefore weight of six rod is 6W which acts at the centre of
gravity G of hexagon. Let L be the length of each rod and θ be the angle which rod BC makes
with horizontal. Let AM and BN are perpendicular on CF. Let P be the midpoint of the AB.
Let T be the thrust in the rod FC.

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 17

Equation of virtual work

6W δ(PG) + T δ(FC) = 0 __________(i)
From figure.
PG = AM = BN = BC sinθ = L sinθ and CN = Lcosθ
Also FC = FM + MN + CN
= CN + AB + CN ∵ FM = CN and MN = AB
= 2CN + AB
= 2L cosθ + L
Using values of PG and FC in (i), we get
6W δ(L sinθ) + T δ(2L cosθ + L) = 0
⇒ 6WL cosθδθ  2TLsinθδθ = 0 ⇒ (6WL cosθ  2TLsinθ)δθ = 0
⇒ 6WL cosθ  2TLsinθ = 0 ∵ δθ ≠ 0
⇒ 6WL cosθ = 2TLsinθ ⇒ T = 3Wcotθ
For a regular hexagon θ = 600
√3W
1
√3
So T = 3Wcot600 = 3W

Question 9
A hexagon ABCDEF, consisting of six equal heavy rods, of weight W, freely jointed
together, hangs in a vertical plane with AB horizontal and the frame is kept in the form of
regular hexagon by a light rod connecting the midpoints of CD and EF. Show that the thrust
in the light rod is 2√3W.

Solution
A M B Fixed Horizontal Level
θ

G
F C
6W
H K Q
P
T T θ

E N D

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 18

Since W be weight of each rod therefore weight of six rod is 6W which acts at the centre of
gravity G of hexagon. Let L be the length of each rod and θ be the angle which rod AB
makes with horizontal. Let EH and DK are perpendicular on PQ where P and Q are the
midpoints of the CD and EF. Let T be the thrust in the rod PQ.
Equation of virtual work
6W δ(MG) + T δ(PQ) = 0 __________(i)
From figure.
MG = GN = 2DK = DQ sinθ = 2
L2 sinθ = L sinθ and KQ = L2cosθ
Also PQ = PH + HK + KQ
= KQ + ED + KQ ∵ HK = ED and KQ = PH
= 2KQ + ED
= L cosθ + L
Using values of PQ and MG in (i), we get
6W δ(L sinθ) + T δ(L cosθ + L) = 0
⇒ 6WL cosθδθ  TL sinθδθ = 0
⇒ (6WL cosθ  TL sinθ)δθ = 0
⇒ 6WL cosθ  TL sinθ = 0 ∵ δθ ≠ 0
⇒ 6WL cosθ = TL sinθ
⇒ T = 6Wcotθ
For a regular hexagon θ = 600
2√3W
1
√3
So T = 6Wcot600 = 6W

Question 10
A heavy elastic string whose natural length is 2πa, is placed around a smooth cone whose
axes is vertical and whose semi-vertical angle has measure α. If W be the weight and λ the
modulus of string. Prove that it will be in equilibrium when in the form of a circle of radius

a 1+
W
cotα
2πλ

Solution
Let the string be in equilibrium at a depth y below the vertex of the cone. Let the radius of the
circle formed by the string in the equilibrium position be x. The circumference of the circle is
2πx.

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 19
O
From fig.
x
tanα =
y α
⇒ x = y tanα
y
Let T be the tension in the string then by Hook’s law
T=λ 
Change in length
x
2πx  2πa
Original Length
=λ 
x  a
2πa
=λ 
a
Let the string be displaced downward by displacement δy.
Then equation of virtual work
Wδy – Tδ(2πx) = 0
⇒ Wδy – Tδ(2πy tanα) = 0
⇒ Wδy – 2πTtanαδy = 0
⇒ (W – 2πTtanα)δy = 0
⇒ W – 2πTtanα = 0 ∵ δy ≠ 0
⇒ W = 2πTtanα
x– a
⇒ W = 2πλ   tanα
a
⇒ Wacotα = 2πλx  a
⇒ Wacotα = 2πxλ  2πaλ
⇒ Wacotα + 2πaλ = 2πxλ

x
Wacotα + 2πaλ
⇒
2πλ

a+
Wacotα
2πλ

a 1 + 
Wcotα
2πλ

Question 11
Two equal particles are connected by two given weightless strings, which are placed like a
necklace on a smooth cone whose axis is vertical and whose vertex is uppermost. Show that
the tension in the string is
W
cotαα
π

Where W is the weight of each particle and 2α the measure of the vertical angle of the cone.

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 20

Solution

α
y

Let both particles be in equilibrium at a depth y below the vertex O. Let the radius of the
circle formed by the string in the equilibrium position be x. The circumference of the circle is
2πx.
From fig.
x
tanα =
y
⇒ x = y tanα

Let T be the tension in the string. Then equation of virtual work

2Wδy – Tδ(2πx) = 0 ⇒ 2Wδy – Tδ(2πy tanα) = 0
⇒ 2Wδy – 2πTtanαδy = 0 ⇒ (2W – 2πTtanα)δy = 0
⇒ 2W – 2πTtanα = 0 ∵ δy ≠ 0
⇒ 2W = 2πTtanα
W
⇒ T= cotα
π

Question 12
A weightless tripod, consisting of three legs of equal length l, smoothly jointed at the vertex,
stands on a smooth horizontal plane. A weight W hangs from the apex. The tripod is
prevented from collapsing by three inextensible strings each of length is l2, joining the
mid-points of the legs. Show that the tension in each string is

√2
W
3√3

Solution

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 21

θ
G A
0
30

D
B A
G 0
30
E D

Since the length of each rod is l. Therefore OA = OB = OC = AB = BC = CA = l2 The

vertical line through O meets the plane of ∆ABC at point G. Where G is the point of
intersection of the medians AE and BD. Let each rod makes an angle θ with OG. Let T be the
tension in each string. Then
Equation of virtual work
 W δ(2OG) – 3Tδ(AC) = 0 { ∵ The height of O above the horizontal plane = 2OG }
⇒ W δ(2OG) + 3Tδ(AC) = 0 _________(i)
From ∆AOG
l
OG = OA cosθ = cosθ
2
l
and AG = OA sinθ = sinθ
2
√3
AC = 2AD = 2AGcos30& = 2 sinθ = √3 sinθ
l l
2 2 2

√3 sinθ ∵ AC =
l l l
⇒
2 2 2

sinθ
1
√3
⇒

As cosθ = 1  sin2 θ

= !1    = !
1 2
√3 3

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 22

tanθ
1
√2
⇒

Using value of OG and AC, we get

Wδlcosθ+3Tδ √3 ⇒  Wlsinθ δθ + 3√3 cosθTδθ = 0

l l
sinθ = 0
2 2

Wlsinθ + 3√3 cosθT δθ = 0 ⇒  Wlsinθ + 3√3 cosθT 0 ∵ δθ ≠ 0

l l
⇒
2 2
l
⇒ Wlsinθ = 3√3 cosθT
2
√2
T Wtanθ
2 2 1
√2
⇒ W W
3√3 3√3 3√3

Question 13
Three equal rods each of weight W are freely jointed together at one extremity of each to
form a tripod and rest with their other extremities on a smooth horizontal plane. Each rod is
inclined at angle of θ to the vertical, equilibrium is being maintained by three light strings
each joining two these extremities. Prove that the tension in each string is

θ
tanθ
√3
W
2√

Solution
O

B A
300
G

E D

W
C

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 23

Let the length of each rod is L and length of each string is x. Then
OA = OB = OC = L and AB = BC = CA = x
The vertical line through O meets the plane of ∆ABC at point G. Where G is the point of
intersection of the medians AE and BD. Let each rod makes an angle θ with OG. Let T be the
tension in each string. Then
Equation of virtual work
 3Wδ    3Tδ(AC) = 0
OG
2
⇒ 3Wδ   + 3Tδ(AC) = 0
OG
_________(i)
2
OG
Where is equal the height of midpoint of each rod above the horizontal plane.
2
From ∆AOG
OG = OA cosθ = Lcosθ
and AG = OA sinθ = Lsinθ
√3
AC = 2AD = 2AGcos30& = 2 Lsinθ = √3L sinθ
2
Using value of OG and AC, we get

3Wδ  cosθ +3Tδ

√3L sinθ= 0
L
2
⇒  WLsinθ δθ + 3√3LcosθTδθ = 0
3
2
 sinθ + √3cosθT δθ = 0
W
⇒
2

⇒  sinθ + √3cosθT 0 ∵ δθ ≠ 0
W
2

sinθ = √3cosθT
W
⇒
2

T
W
⇒ tanθ
2√3

Question 14
Six equal uniform rods are freely jointed at their extremities to form a tetrahedron. If this
tetrahedron is place with one face on a smooth horizontal table. Prove that the thrust along a
horizontal rod is
W
2√6

Where W is the weight of each rod.

Solution

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 24

B A
300
G

E D

W
C

Let the length of each rod is L. Therefore OA = OB = OC = AB = BC = CA = L

The vertical line through O meets the plane of ∆ABC at point G. Where G is the point of
intersection of the medians AE and BD. Let each rod makes an angle θ with OG. Let T be the
thrust in each lower rod. Then
Equation of virtual work

 3Wδ    3Tδ(AC) = 0
OG
2

⇒ 3Wδ   + 3Tδ(AC) = 0
OG
_________(i)
2
OG
Where is equal the height of midpoint of each rod above the horizontal plane.
2
From ∆AOG
OG = OA cosθ = Lcosθ
and AG = OA sinθ = Lsinθ
√3
AC = 2AD = 2AGcos30& = 2 Lsinθ = √3L sinθ
2
⇒ √3L sinθ = L ∵ AC = L

sinθ
1
√3
⇒

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 25

Now cosθ = 1  sin2 θ

1 
!
= 1 
√3

=!
2
3

tanθ
1
√2
⇒

Using value of OG and AC, we get

3Wδ  cosθ +3Tδ

√3L sinθ= 0
L
2

⇒  WLsinθ δθ + 3√3LcosθTδθ = 0
3
2

 sinθ + √3cosθT δθ = 0
W
⇒
2

⇒  sinθ + √3cosθT 0 ∵ δθ ≠ 0
W
2

sinθ = √3cosθT
W
⇒
2
T
W
⇒ tanθ
2√3

W 1
2√3 √2

W
2√6

Question 15
Four equal uniform rods, each of weight w, are connected at one end of each by means of a
smooth joint, and other ends rest on a smooth table and are connected by equal strings. A
weight W is suspended from the joint. Show that the tension in each string is

 " #
W + 2w a
4 4l2  2a2

Where l is the length of each rod and a is the length of each string.

Solution

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 26

A D

W
450
B C

Given that
OA = OB = OC = OD = l
and AB = BC = CD = DA = a
Let the suspended weight W makes an angle θ with each rod. Let T be the tension in each
string. Then equation of virtual work
 4wδ    WδOG  4Tδ(BC) = 0
OG
____________(i)
2
In ∆OCG
CG = OCsinθ = lsinθ and OG = lcosθ
Also AC = 2CG = 2lsinθ
In ∆ABC
BC = ACcos450
= 2lsinθ1
√2

= √2lsinθ

⇒ √2lsinθ = a ∵ BC = a
a
⇒ sinθ =
l√2

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 27

Now cosθ = 1  sin2 θ

a 
= !1   
l√2
2l2  a2
=
l√2
tanθ
a
2l2  a2
⇒

Using values of OG and BC in (i), we get

4wδ    Wδlcosθ  4Tδ(√2lsinθ) = 0

lcosθ
2
⇒ 2wsinθδθ + Wsinθδθ  4√2 Tcosθδθ = 0
⇒ 2wsinθ + Wsinθ  4√2 Tcosθδθ = 0
⇒ 2wsinθ + Wsinθ  4√2 Tcosθ 0 ∵ δθ ≠ 0
⇒ 2wsinθ + Wsinθ 4√2 Tcosθ
2w + Wtanθ
⇒ T
4√2
2w + Wtanθ

4√2
2w + W

a
4√2 2l2  a2
2w + W

a
4 4l2  2a2

Question 16
A regular octahedron formed of twelve equal rods, each of weight w, freely jointed together
is suspended from one corner. Show that the thrust in each horizontal rod is

√2w
3
2

Solution
Let length of each rod be L. Then
OA = OB = OC = OD=AB = BC = CD = DA = O'A = O'B = O'C = O'D = L
Let each upper rod makes an angle θ with vertical OG. Where G is the point of intersection of
diagonals AC and BD. Let T be the thrust in each horizontal rod.

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 28

Then Equation of virtual work

12WδOG + 4Tδ(BC) = 0 ____________(i)

A D

W
450
B C

O'
In ∆COG
OG = OCcosθ = Lcosθ
And CG = OCsinθ = Lsinθ
Also AC = 2CG = 2Lsinθ
In ∆ABC
BC = ACcos450 = 2Lsinθ 1 = √2Lsinθ
√2
⇒ √2Lsinθ = L ∵ BC = L
1
√2
⇒ sinθ = ⇒ θ = 450

Using values of OG and BC in (i), we get

12WδLcosθ + 4Tδ(√2Lsinθ) = 0

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 29

⇒  3Wsinθ δθ + T√2cosθ δθ = 0
⇒
3Wsinθ + T√2cosθ δθ = 0

⇒  3Wsinθ + T√2cosθ 0 ∵ δθ ≠ 0
⇒ 3Wsinθ = T√2cosθ

T
3
√2
⇒ Wtanθ

3
√2
Wtan45

3 2
√2
W×
2

√2W
3
2

Question 17
A uniform rod of length 2a rest in equilibrium against a smooth vertical wall and upon a
smooth peg at a distance b from the wall. Show that, in the position of equilibrium, the
beam is inclined to the wall at an angle

b 3
 
1
(1
sin
a

Solution

Let AB be the rod of length 2a. W is its B

weight acting downward from its centre G.
Then
AB = 2a and AG = a
Let P be a peg at distance b from the wall.
Then NP = b M G
Equation of virtual work
Wδ(MN) = 0 ______(i) N
b
P
From figure.
θ
MN = AM – AN
= AGcosθ  NPcotθ A
W
= acosθ  bcotθ
Using value of MN in (i), we get
Wδ( acosθ  bcotθ) = 0

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 30

⇒ W (  asinθδθ + bcosec2θδθ) = 0
⇒ Wasinθδθ  Wbcosec2θδθ = 0
⇒ (Wasinθ  Wbcosec2θ)δθ = 0
⇒ Wasinθ  Wbcosec2θ = 0 ∵ δθ ≠ 0
⇒ Wasinθ = Wbcosec2θ
sinθ b
⇒ 2 =
cosec θ a
b
⇒ sin3θ =
a
)
*
sinθ =  
b
⇒
a
)
*
(1
 
b
⇒ θ = sin
a

%%%%% End of The Chapter # 3 %%%%%

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