A flat symmetrically shaped metal plate is pivoted about its geometrical center as shown in diagram. It shows a number of forces acting upon it.
a.) Determine mathematically the value and direction of a single resultant force which when acting upon the plate shown below would effectively replace the forces shown.
b.) Also determine the resultant turning moment acting on the plate about the pivot indicated. Use the resultant force found in part- a) to help find a distance away from the pivot that this resultant force would act to give the same turning moment. Determine the size of the reaction forces at the two supports on the beam shown.