Two W$8$ xx$31$ rolled$-$steel sections may be welded at A and B in either of the two ways shown in order to form a composite

beam. For each weld the allowable shearing force is $3000$ lb per inch of weld.

Determine the maximum allowable vertical shear in the composite beam for arrangement $($a$).($Round the final answer to two decimal

places.$)$

The maximum allowable vertical shear in the composite beam for arrangement $($a$)$ is