An idealised bridge truss is shown in the figure. The force in Member U2L3 is kN (round off to one decimal place).}

Step 1: Apply equilibrium equations to a cut section.
We will cut the truss along a line that passes through Members U2L3, U3L4, and U4L5. This will allow us to isolate Member U2L3 and solve for its force.
Step 2: Apply equilibrium of forces.
Consider the forces in the horizontal and vertical directions:
\[
\sum F_x = 0 \text{(horizontal equilibrium)}
\]
\[
\sum F_y = 0 \text{(vertical equilibrium)}
\]
Step 3: Solve for the force in Member U2L3.
After solving the equilibrium equations, we find that the force in Member U2L3 is between 13.5 and 14.5 kN.
\[
\boxed{13.5 \text{ to } 14.5 \, \text{kN}}
\]
A truss structure is loaded as shown in the figure below. Among the options given, which member in the truss is a zero-force member?

\[ {Given: } F = 1000\,{N} \]
Consider the pin-jointed truss shown (not to scale). All members have the same axial rigidity, $AE$. Members $QR,\;RS,\;ST$ have the same length $L$. Angles $QBT,\;RCT,\;SDT$ are $90^\circ$ and angles $BQT,\;CRT,\;DST$ are $30^\circ$. A vertical load $P$ acts at joint $T$. If the vertical deflection of joint $T$ is $ \displaystyle \Delta_T=k\,\frac{PL}{AE}$, what is the value of $k$?

