Subtopic: Static weight distribution on front and rear axles
Question Statement:
A tractor has a total weight of $19620\text{ N}$ and a wheelbase of $2.0\text{ m}$. Its center of gravity (CG) is located $0.8\text{ m}$ ahead of the rear axle center. Under static level conditions, the vertical ground reaction on the front axle is:
Options:
(A) $7848\text{ N}$
(B) $10202\text{ N}$
(C) $5494\text{ N}$
(D) $12557\text{ N}$
Answer Key:
A
Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation
Taking moments about the rear wheel ground contact point:
$\sum M_{rear} = 0 \implies R_f \times \text{WB} - W \times x = 0$
$R_f = \frac{W \times x}{\text{WB}} = \frac{19620 \times 0.8}{2.0} = 7848\text{ N}$
Hence, the front axle reaction is $7848\text{ N}$.