Directions: Solve the below problem for the forces requested. All information required is

provided. Calculators and open book are permitted. You have $20$ minutes.

Knowing that $P=300lb$ and $Q=150lb,$ determine:

a$.$ The distance $a,$ for which the maximum absolute value of the bending moment in beam

$AB$ is as small as possible.

b$.$ The corresponding value of $|M{|}_{\text{m}\text{a}\text{x}}.$

$($Hint: Draw the bending$-$moment diagram and then equate the absolute values of the largest

positive and negative bending moments obtained.$)$