Question

One of the uses of the centre of mass or centroid of the composite bodies is as in the simplification of the loading system the net force acts at the ___________ of the loading body.

(a) Centroid

(b) The centre axis

(c) The corner

(d) The base

This question was addressed to me at a job interview.

My doubt stems from Composite Bodies topic in chapter Centre of Gravity and Centroid of Engineering Mechanics

Answer 1

Correct choice is (a) Centroid

For explanation: In the simplification of the loading system the net force acts at the centroid of the composite body. That is if the loading system is in the form of the triangle then at the distance 2 by 3 of the base the net force of the loading will act. And the load will be half the area of the loading.