Overweight Truck Crossing a Bridge

In summary: So, there is a conundrum.In summary, the conversation is about finding a solution to safely cross a bridge with a truck carrying overweight chickens. The suggestion is to make the chickens fly around in the truck by banging on the sides, but there is a concern about the force of the chickens' weight and the air supporting them affecting the truck.
  • #1
physicsss
319
0
A truck carrying chickens is too heavy for a bridge that it needs to cross. The empty truck is within the weight limits; with the chickens it is overweight. It is suggested that if one could get the chickens to fly around in the truck by banging on the truck side, it would be safe to cross the bridge. Do you agree? Explain.

I'd agree if you could get the chickens banging on the sides of the truck so that the force they exert on the truck is sideways and not downward as it would be if they are stationary. Any suggestions or insights that I'm missing to solve this problem?

Thanks in adv.
 
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  • #2
Funny!
My humble opinion is that if the chickens only exert on the truck a sideway force, they will fall since there is no force counteracting the weight.
 
  • #3
physicsss said:
A truck carrying chickens is too heavy for a bridge that it needs to cross. The empty truck is within the weight limits; with the chickens it is overweight. It is suggested that if one could get the chickens to fly around in the truck by banging on the truck side, it would be safe to cross the bridge. Do you agree? Explain.

I'd agree if you could get the chickens banging on the sides of the truck so that the force they exert on the truck is sideways and not downward as it would be if they are stationary. Any suggestions or insights that I'm missing to solve this problem?

Thanks in adv.

Yes, I suggest that you read the problem more closely. Nothing is said about chickens banging on the sides of the truck, it is about you banging on the sides of the truck in order to make the chickens fly!
The "idea" would be that, in flight, the chickens weight would not affect the truck. Of course, one would have to consider that the air that is supporting the chickens is supported by the truck.
 

Related to Overweight Truck Crossing a Bridge

1. How does the weight of a truck affect its ability to cross a bridge?

The weight of a truck can significantly impact its ability to safely cross a bridge. If the truck is overweight, it puts more stress on the bridge, potentially causing structural damage or collapse. This is especially true for bridges that are not designed to handle heavy loads. Additionally, the weight distribution of the truck can also affect its ability to cross a bridge, as uneven weight distribution can cause the bridge to become unbalanced and potentially fail.

2. What is considered an overweight truck?

An overweight truck is one that exceeds the maximum weight limit set by the bridge or road it is traveling on. This weight limit is determined by the strength and capacity of the bridge or road, and is typically indicated by signs or posted regulations. The weight limit can vary depending on the type of bridge or road, so it is important for truck drivers to be aware of the specific limits for each route they take.

3. What are the dangers of an overweight truck crossing a bridge?

The dangers of an overweight truck crossing a bridge are numerous. As mentioned before, the excess weight can cause structural damage or collapse of the bridge, putting the truck driver and other drivers at risk. Additionally, an overweight truck can also cause the bridge to become unbalanced, leading to a potential rollover or loss of control. It can also increase the risk of tire blowouts, brake failures, and other mechanical issues due to the added strain on the truck's components.

4. How can the weight of a truck be determined before crossing a bridge?

Truck drivers should always weigh their vehicles before attempting to cross a bridge to ensure they are within the weight limit. This can be done at a weigh station or by using portable scales. It is also important to distribute the weight evenly on the truck to avoid unbalanced loads. Some trucks also have built-in weight sensors that can provide real-time weight information to the driver.

5. Are there any regulations or penalties for overweight trucks crossing bridges?

Yes, there are regulations and penalties in place to prevent overweight trucks from crossing bridges. These regulations are set by state or federal transportation authorities and can vary depending on the location. Penalties for violating weight limits can include fines, suspension of commercial driver's license, or even criminal charges in extreme cases. It is important for truck drivers to always follow weight regulations to ensure the safety of themselves and others on the road.

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