A complex three$-$dimensional structural analysis of a bridge is being performed using a sophisticated finite

element software. The chief structural engineer wants to verify and validate the computational model and its

results. For the verification and validation process, the chief structural engineer assigned you the task of

performing an independent structural analysis of the bridge. As part of the verification stage, a simpler model is

required and you propose to analyze one the K trusses of one side of the bridge, thus reducing the $3$D problem

to a $2$D task. After an investigation of the project$$s blueprints, your reduced structural model of one of the

trusses of the bridge is shown in the picture. As part of the numerous calculations you have to complete,

a$)$ Find the reactions of the truss shown.

b$)$ Using the methods of section and$/$or joints, find the forces in members BC$,$ NC$,$ NI$,$ and HI$.$

Note: The chief engineer did not provide the computation finite model nor the structural analysis results $($maybe the

computational analysis is being conducted concurrently$)$ and will meet you in one week. You will show and defend your

independent structural analysis, and your results, if correct, will be used to validate the computation model and design of

the bridge.