The two A$-36$ steel bars $($Figure $1)$ have a thickness of $1\mathrm{.}0$ in $.$ and a width of $4\mathrm{.}5$ in $.$ They are designed to act as a spring for the machine which exerts a force of $4$ kip on them at $\backslash ($ A $\backslash )$ and $\backslash ($ B $\backslash ).$

Figure

Part A

If the supports exert only vertical forces on the bars, determine the maximum deflection of the bottom bar.

Express your answer in inches to three significant figures. Enter positive value if the deflection is upward and negative value if the deflection is downward.

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