Weight on a String

Consider the situation of a beam supporting a weight in the center. Variables include:

- the dimensions of the beam: length (L), breadth (B), and thickness (t)
- the amount of weight supported (W) (also called the "load")
- the amount by which the beam bends (y) (called "deformation")

Beam Deformation

Evaluate a complex expression using proper order of operations.

Subject: Mathematics
Topics: Algebra--Equations and Expressions; Powers, Roots and Scientific Notation
Grades: 9 - 12
Knowledge and Skills:
- Can evaluate expressions by substituting values for variables
- Can simplify expressions using correct order of operations
- Understands the function of grouping symbols in an expression
- Understands the concept "root"

Download Teacher Guide: Weight on a String (PDF)
Download Student Lesson: Weight on a String (PDF)

Structural EngineeringStructural Engineering:

To design buildings that don't fall down, you need to know how your materials will respond to forces such as gravity, wind, and earthquakes.
Running time 3:02 minutes.

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