1. ## Rectangular Beam

The maximum safe load that a rectangular beam can support varies directly with the width w and the square of the height h and inversely with the length L of the beam. A 6-foot-long beam that is 2 inches high and 4 inches wide has a maximum safe load of 1000 pounds.

(a) What is the maximum safe load for a 10-foot-long beam that is 4 inches high and 4 inches wide?

(b) How long should a 4 inch beam be to safely support a 6000-pound load?

2. Originally Posted by sologuitar
The maximum safe load that a rectangular beam can support varies directly with the width w and the square of the height h and inversely with the length L of the beam.
Translating this directly into an equation, I get

$M = k \frac{wh^2}{L}$

where $k$ is a proportionality constant that you have to determine from the data you've been given. That is, they've given you M, w, h, and L in one case, and you have to figure out $k$ for that case.

Once you know $k$, you can use it to solve for any of the unknown situations.

3. ## Good...

Originally Posted by Haversine
Translating this directly into an equation, I get

$M = k \frac{wh^2}{L}$

where $k$ is a proportionality constant that you have to determine from the data you've been given. That is, they've given you M, w, h, and L in one case, and you have to figure out $k$ for that case.

Once you know $k$, you can use it to solve for any of the unknown situations.
Thanks for the tips. I can take it from here.